Zuma admits fathering child out of wedlock

South African President Jacob Zuma has confirmed he fathered a child outside of wedlock last year.

But he has dismissed claims his behaviour undermined the government's policy on HIV/AIDS prevention, which advises regular condom use and monogamy.

It is not the first time Mr Zuma's sex life has become a matter of public concern.

In 2006, Mr Zuma admitted he had made a mistake by having unprotected sex with a woman he knew to be HIV-positive.

Mr Zuma has three wives and has already fathered 19 children।

Polygamist president under fire over affair

Under fire: safe sex campaigners say President Zuma sets a shocking example to the country. (abc)

South African President Jacob Zuma has been accused of setting a poor example in his attitude to safe sex, after reportedly fathering a child out of wedlock.

The South African media is reporting Mr Zuma had an affair with a woman last year which resulted in the birth of his 20th child.

Mr Zuma is a practising polygamist and is currently married to three wives.

But his sexual practices have outraged safe sex campaigners who say he sets a shocking example to the rest of the country.

Around 6 million South Africans are infected with HIV and AIDS and Government advertising warns of the dangers of having more than one partner.

However, the head of the ANC Youth League, Julius Malema, says Mr Zuma's sex life should not be discussed.

Mr Zuma has so far refused to comment.