The Directors of the Pietermaritzburg Chamber of Business have made a bold statement by submitting to voluntary testing for HIV.
The President of the Chamber, Zinhle Sokhela, explained: “We felt that our business community had to re-invigorate its contribution to the control of HIV and AIDs. The most important aspect, we felt, was the necessity for people to learn their status through voluntary testing. This might enable employers and employees to work together in the achievement of a better health regimen for those who are positive. Companies cannot help their workers whose HIV status remains a secret from the employer. We are trying to promote the message that ‘Employment is a relationship of trust’”.
The PCB directors reasoned that if they wished to convey this message in a convincing fashion, they themselves should set an example and submit to testing. Accordingly, and with the support of Midlands Medical Centre and Lancet Laboratories, tests were done prior to a recent meeting of the Board.
“This was not simply a gesture on our part,” said the President. “HIV and AIDS does not discriminate between people and it is necessary for community leaders to do the responsible thing and get tested.”
The PCB President, Zinhle Sokhela, having her finger pricked for the HIV test. The Lancet Laboratories personnel in attendance are Pauline Makhaye and Sister Sandra Chetty.
RESOURCES
RED RIBBON PORTAL ON HIV AND AIDS
At this site you will find valuable information about everything you need to know about HIV & AIDS, from how to prevent HIV to living a positive, productive life with the virus. Visit www.redribbon.co.za
SABCOHA (South African Business Coalition Against HIV and Aids)
At this site you will find strategies to deal with HIV and AIDS in the workplace, case studies, and the latest surveys and articles delving into AIDS in the business arena. Visit www.redribbon.co.za/business/default.asp
