The voluntary HIV counselling and testing took place as part of a West African women’s leadership seminar, which ran from March 4 to 8. HIV and AIDS is considered by many to be a matter of shame, and HIV testing can be viewed negatively.
Altogether, 32 participants went for testing, including women leaders and ITF officials.
Yvonne Adanlete Lawson, a member of the ITF Africa women’s committee, said: “HIV testing is still a taboo and we are afraid to go for testing as so much stigma is associated with it. I am happy to see so many women leaders from West Africa participating in the seminar came out to challenge the silence and do the testing.”
ITF women transport workers’ coordinator Alison McGarry highlighted the role that women play around the world in challenging their societies to change. She emphasised the importance of winning employer support for educating members on the facts about HIV and AIDS, building links with other organisations working in the field, and continuing the fight against sexual violence which increases the change of infection.
ITF women act on HIV
news
ON THE GROUND
news
India dockers win fight for new pay deal
Major strike called off after last minute pay offer – which should have come nearly three years ago. Dockers working across India’s 12 major state-run ports have called off an indefinite strike
news
The crucial role of transport workers at the Paris Olympics: a transport union perspective
As the world reflects on the 2024 Paris Olympics, the spotlight often shines on the athletes, venues, and the grandeur of the event. Yet behind the scenes, a critical workforce ensured the smooth
news
Press Release
INDIAN RAIL UNIONS WIN MASSIVE PENSIONS BREAKTHROUGH
Millions of workers stand to benefit now that the Indian government has agreed to long-standing union demands for a major uplift of their national pension scheme for central government employees. This
Post new comment