HIV/AIDS POLICY

 OPERATION PHAKAMA

HIV/AIDS POLICY

EFFECTIVE DATE: 27 MAY 2025

APPROVED BY: ALFRED MAREMANE 

REVIEW DATE: 27 MAY 2026

PURPOSE 

This policy sets out the policy of OPERATION PHAKAMA regarding the prevention, care, and support of HIV/AIDS for employees, volunteers, beneficiaries, and stakeholders. The policy seeks to establish a non-discriminatory, supportive environment and comply with all applicable legislation and health laws.

SCOPE

This policy applies to: 

All staff members and volunteers

Program beneficiaries and clients 

Visitors and collaborators who enter into contact with the organization

POLICY PRINCIPLES

Non-discrimination: No individual shall be discriminated on the basis of his or her actual or perceived HIV status. 

Confidentiality: An individual's HIV status is kept confidential. it will be shared only with the informed consent of the person or per law.

Education and awareness: The organization shall provide information and education to staff and communities regarding HIV prevention, treatment, and care

Supportive environment: HIV-positive staff and client will be respected and not discriminated against or treated unfairly 

Health and safety: Universal pre-cautions to prevent occupational exposure and transmission of HIV will be followed by all staff 

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Employees and volunteers

• are entitled to safe and non-discriminatory work environment
• are encouraged to participate in voluntary HIV testing and counselling
• are expected to respect the confidentiality of others

The organization 

• will not require HIV testing as condition of employment
• will provide for HIV/AIDS employees, if practical, at the recommendation of doctors
• will establish relationships with medical care providers are referral agencies for supportive care 

WORK PLACE PRACTISES 

• Universal precaution (e.g gloving, disposal of sharps) will be required
• training sessions will be conducted at least annually
• employees are entitled to take leave as needed for illness resulting from HIV under the company's medical leave policy 

MONITTORING AND EVALUATION 

The policy will be reviewed every two years

• revisions will consider comments from staff, beneficiaries and stakeholders
• violations or incidents under the policy will be investigated and handled sensitively and in confidence

COMPLIANCE

This policy complies with:

• National HIV/AIDS legal and policy frameworks
• International best practice, including ILO and WHO guidelines
• The organization's code of conduct and HR policies

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 

All staff and volunteers will be required to read, sign and return an acknowledgement form stating compliance with this policy.