HIV/AIDS in Southern Africa

In 2002 HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths in sub-Saharan Africa continued to rise.

BP has developed internal policies and external partnerships to help deal with the AIDS crisis. All our policies are based on the principles of non-disclosure, confidentiality, tolerance, inclusion and non-discrimination.

We provide education and counselling for all staff, as well as primary care and medical services to those infected. There is no compulsory HIV testing for recruitment, promotion, or career development. Employees cannot be denied promotion or training because they have HIV/AIDS. Voluntary testing is encouraged and free condoms are supplied in all BP workplaces in the region.

Our internal education programmes are designed to ensure that our staff understand the disease and its implications and can make appropriate choices. We provide specific guidelines and training to all BP managers.

BP is also supporting external HIV/AIDS awareness-raising and education programmes in partnership with government, NGOs, trade unions and other businesses.

One of our prime partners is Soul City a television ‘soap opera’ that uses entertainment to educate people on health and development issues. The show is watched by 12 million viewers in several African countries and plays a vital role in HIV/AIDS education.