NAC Zambia nac.org.zm
The National HIV/AIDS/STI/TB Council in partnership with the Zambia Federation of Employers, Zambia Congress of Trade Union with support from the international Labour organization has launched the Private Sector Engagement Strategy on HIV and AIDS & the Informal Economy Guidelines. The guest of honour at the Launch was the Minister of Labour and Social Security who was represented by the Labour Commissioner Mr. Given Muntengwa. In his speech the Commissioner implored all sectors to work together in order to; promote HIV prevention and awareness, increase access to HIV services, support those living with HIV and more importantly reduce Stigma and Discrimination.
“The HIV and AIDS guidelines for the Informal Economy and Private Sector Engagement Strategy we are launching today reflect our shared goal to reduce the impact of HIV on workers, promote fairness, and protect health and dignity in every workplace,” said Mr. Koh
The UNAIDS Country Director Mr. Isaac Ahemesah informed the meeting that globally there were 40 million people living with HIV of which 1.4 million people are living in Zambia. He further stated that Zambia has exceeded the 95-95-95 mantra and that the launch of the two documents were timely as the private sector drives the economy and contributes to the development of every country. He underscored the involvement of the private sector in sustaining the gains that the country has achieved in order to have a country that will be free from the threat of HIV by 2030.
Zambia Federation of Employers (ZFE) Executive Director Mr. Harrington Chibanda called for stronger collaboration between the government and private sector to address HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), and Tuberculosis (TB).
He stressed the need for better access to care and increased domestic funding without burdening patients.
ZFE pledged to share the strategy and guidelines with its members and encourage active private sector participation.
