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HIV/AIDS workplace policy launched in Kenya port
19 March 2009
 |  |  view larger image | | | Trade unionists and managers attending the launch of the Mombasa port workplace policy | |
Trade unionists and managers celebrated the development of a key tool in the fight against HIV infection after they launched an HIV/AIDS workplace policy in a Kenya port.
The ITF-affiliated Kenya Dockworkers’ Union, which played a key role in the establishment of the policy, and the Kenya Port Authority, saw the policy launched on 12 March in Mombasa. During the ceremony, attended by some 500 workers and management personnel, a number of awareness activities were organised, including drama, role play and the distribution of education materials. In addition, the medical department of the Kenya Port Authority organised voluntary blood donations to highlight the importance of safe blood transfusions in controlling the epidemic.
Simon Sang, General Secretary of the union said: “This policy will help us to fight stigma and discrimination in the workplace. It will ensure that resources are mobilised to support and sustain HIV/AIDS workplace programmes. The policy not only covers workers, but also their dependants and includes providing anti-retrovirals for all.”
The launch coincided with an ITF pilot project to combat HIV/AIDS stigma and secrecy through storytelling. Over the week, ITF representatives Dr Asif Altaf and Anna Karume along with Dr Murray Nossel of Narativ New York organised storytelling workshops with dock workers, truck drivers and union officials as well as with an HIV positive support group.
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