HIV/AIDS prevention in Africa

In 2002, the ILO started running programmes for HIV/AIDS prevention at work in African countries. The ILO believes that the workplace has a role to play in the struggle to limit the spread and the effects of the epidemic. Pilot activities have been undertaken so far in Ethiopia, Uganda and Zambia. Sectors such as agricultural plantations, long range transports and mines were chosen to start the programme since they show higher levels of HIV/AIDS diffusion.

With the support of the Italian Cooperation, the ILO has been able to assist local employers’ associations in developing efficient policies to inform the workers on the disease, its prevention and therefore contain the spread of HIV/AIDS amongst them and their families. The projects led to better knowledge on the risks of transmission, improved attitude towards those living with HIV/AIDS and more dialogue on HIV/AIDS within families and communities. In addition, more people can now refer to the support services and have access to medical assistance.