reasons why children cannot access antiretroviral. The Committee also notes that there is shortage of equipment for HIV testing for children who are below the age of 18 months, and lack of trained health personnel to handle psychosocial needs of children with HIV/AIDS. Hence the Committee recommends the State Party to: a) Strengthen partnership between CSO and government agencies in provision of paediatric care and support; b) Sensitize communities to halt the stigma and discrimination of children living with HIV/AIDS; c) Strengthen measures taken to increase access PMTCT services; d) Provide sufficient equipment for HIV testing for all children, particularly to those who are below the age of 18 months, with qualified health personnel; and e) Undertake psychosocial programs for children affected by HIV and AIDS. I. Responsibility of the child 36. The Committee notes with appreciation the incorporation of the responsibilities of the child in the Child Rights Act. The Committee recommends the State Party to come up with initiatives to guide parents, teachers and other concerned bodies to facilitate the active participation of children for the greater good of society, in accordance with their age and without affecting the enjoyment of any of their rights under the Charter. The Committee further encourages the State Party to sensitize children about their rights and responsibilities and to empower them through education and the media to assume their responsibilities in the society and prepare them to develop in to wellrounded adult citizens using the Children’s Forum Network and other platforms. J. Conclusion 37. The African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child appreciates the efforts invested by the Government of Sierra Leone and aspires for the implementation of these recommendations. The Committee would like to indicate that it will undertake a follow up Mission to ascertain the implementation of these recommendations in the foreseeable future. The Committee would also like to invite the State Party to submit its combined first, second, third, fourth and fifth periodic report in 2021, which the Committee considers as the first periodic report. 38. The African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child takes this opportunity to renew to the Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone the assurances of its highest consideration. 16