By Ukpa Ewa
The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has inaugurated a Technical Committee to review and reposition the Anambra State HIV Workplace Policy in line with current public health realities and evolving workplace dynamics.
Speaking during the inauguration in Awka, the Executive Director of the agency Dr. Nkem Okeke said the move was part of initiatives to build a healthier, more productive and stigma free workforce across the state.
According to him , the last review of the HIV Workplace Policy was carried out in 2023, but emerging workplace challenges and changing public health priorities have made it necessary to develop a more responsive and implementable framework.
Dr. Okeke explained that the proposed policy will focus on protecting workers right, promote HIV prevention, reduce stigma, discrimination, and improve workplace productivity in both public and private sectors.
The Technical Committee is chaired by seasoned Public Health Physician, Dr Sibeudu Nnaemeka, alongside other professionals drawn from relevant sectors.
Inline with ANSACA work plan, the committee was given six weeks to produce an evidence driven and forward looking policy aligned with the National Workplace HIV Policy while addressing the peculiar realities of Anambra State.
The Executive Director further disclosed that after the draft process, a broadened stakeholder engagement involving government institutions, labour groups, private sector actors, civil society organisations and development partners will be convened to ensure inclusive participation and ownership before the final adoption of the policy.
Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information Anambra State
