Last Updated on March 24, 2006 by Paulette Brown-Hinds
By Braden Ruddy
Mar. 20 (GIN) – Kenyas Anglican Church has issued a public apology for the way it has previously treated those infected with HIV/AIDS.
“Our earlier approach in fighting AIDS was misplaced, since we likened it to a disease for sinners and a curse from God,” said Archbishop Benjamin Nzimbi.
Persons infected with the virus have faced widespread discrimination in Kenya from the church with some members even being excommunicated.
Gideaon Byamugisha, a Ugandan clergyman who has lived with HIV for 19 years, welcome the apology.
“Its better to be long overdue than never,” he said.
Archbishop Nzimbi siad Kenyas church would now concentrate its efforts to help end the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.