Fatshimetrie, edition of July 29, 2024 – The issue of raising awareness of sexually transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS in the workplace is at the heart of the concerns of workers at the CFHEC company in Kisangani, in the Tshopo province, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The initiative was implemented by the NGO Habari/DRC in collaboration with Amazeorg, with financial support from the World Bank.
The need to raise awareness among CFHEC employees about these diseases is justified by the observation that many people, including within the Congolese population, are unaware of their HIV status and do not benefit from regular medical monitoring. This exposes them and their colleagues to an increased risk of contracting these infections, especially since unprotected sex is commonplace within the company.
Augustin Elanga, representative of the NGO Habari/DRC in Kisangani, stressed the importance of informing workers about the modes of transmission of these diseases and the appropriate prevention methods. This approach aims to equip them to adopt responsible behaviors and protect themselves against these sexually transmitted infections.
The feedback from participants in this awareness-raising initiative was extremely positive, with them expressing the wish that such actions be regularly organized in order to strengthen their knowledge and practices in terms of prevention. Indeed, collective awareness of these public health issues is essential to promote healthy behaviors and protect the health of the entire professional community.
In conclusion, raising awareness of sexually transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS in the workplace is crucial to preserving the health and well-being of workers. This initiative demonstrates the commitment of local and international actors to promote public health and combat the spread of these diseases. It is imperative to continue these awareness and prevention efforts to ensure a healthy and safe work environment for all.
Fatshimetrie will remain attentive to any future developments in this crucial area of public health and will continue to inform its readers about the actions taken to prevent and combat sexually transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS in the workplace.