Institutions urged to formulate HIV and AIDS workplace policy

Yendi (N/R), Jan. 22, GNA - The Yendi Municipal Chief Executive, Mr. Walvis Hudu, has urged institutions and organisations to formulate workplace HIV and AIDS policies that would offer workers and other individuals more insight into the virus and help curb its spread. He said the human resource of the country was the most essential asset of the nation and if a substantial number of the population was being affected by the virus, then it called for more concern and the need to formulate such a policy for the good of society.

Mr. Hudu was addressing heads of decentralised organisations and departments at a day's HIV and AIDS workshop in Yendi on Thursday. He said a workplace policy was critical in providing essential guidance in formulating and implementing policies that are gender sensitive and addresses the needs of the vulnerable groups and provide care and support initiatives to them.

Mr. Hudu said the strategic location of the Yendi Municipality in the eastern corridors made its people vulnerable to some diseases including HIV. He called for a critical look and review of policy interventions and approach in winning the fight against the virus. "Equally important in this fight is the need for a strong advocacy on the need to eschew discrimination and stigmatization of persons living with HIV and AIDS", he said.