ILO to launch a new study on HIV and AIDS in Africa

PRETORIA (ILO News) - The new 2015 ILO report Effective Responses to HIV and AIDS at Work: A multi-country study in Africa will be launched on 24 April at the EY Building, in Sandton – Johannesburg, South Africa in the presence of the Minister of Labour, H.E. Mrs Mildred Oliphant.

The new study provides a comprehensive assessment of HIV and AIDS workplace initiatives across 10 African countries: Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Senegal, South Africa and Zambia.

The report, undertaken by Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), South Africa for the ILO, offers the latest analysis of strategies and factors that led to better responses in terms of increasing knowledge about HIV and AIDS and changing risky behaviours; growing commitment for voluntary counselling and testing; reducing stigma and discrimination; and enhancing acceptance of anti-retroviral treatment.

It also highlights successful policies, programmes and HIV investments adopted by a variety of workplaces, including public, private, formal and informal within the African continent.

Key findings and policy recommendations contained in the study are expected to support the design and delivery of efficient workplace HIV responses throughout Africa.

Electronic copies of the report will be available to media upon request.

Journalists and correspondents based in South Africa are invited to a joint press briefing by ILO, South African tripartite constituents and UNAIDS to be held on 24 April at 12 p.m. in the EY Building, in Sandton, Johannesburg.

Interviews can be scheduled via the ILO Communication Unit of the Decent Work Team based in Pretoria.

For more information, please contact Tshepo Kau +27 12 818-8000 and Simphiwe Mabhele +27 78 803-7750 (ILO)