Nigeria HIV/AIDS training, with a theme of “in unity we mitigate stigma.” |
In 2006, we developed and published a HIV/AIDS position (
http://www.conocophillips.com/sd/hivaids).
In operating regions where HIV/AIDS represents a significant
public health risk, we support community-based resources and
programs that recognize and seek to mitigate the social stigma
and adverse impact of the disease, emphasize preventive education
and provide early intervention and long-term treatment.
ConocoPhillips’ Nigerian business unit, in partnership with the
Nigerian Business Coalition Against AIDS (NIBUCAA) to
which we belong, conducted an awareness campaign among its
workforce with the theme “in unity we mitigate stigma.” The
theme was chosen because the stigma of HIV/AIDS has many
negative impacts for people beyond the effect of the virus
itself. The awareness program included a company presentation
on our HIV/AIDS position, presentations on HIV/AIDS by
NIBUCCA, presentations by people living with HIV/AIDS
about their experiences, and the distribution of condoms and a
demonstration of the proper use of condoms.
The feedback on the awareness sessions was generally
positive. One participant, Temitope Ariyibi, said, “It was
enlightening. The knowledge of how the victims live with the
virus and still maintain a normal life is needed by all. People
must change the mindset that HIV/AIDS is only contracted
by sex.”
