Sub-Regional Workshop on HIV and Aids in the Transport Sector in Southern Africa
Transportation is integral to the development in southern Africa, however there is ample evidence that HIV and AIDS is impacting negatively on the transportation sector in the region. The objectives of the workshop were to review current evidence on HIV and AIDS/TB in the transport sector in southern Africa as well as to identify gaps and research agendas to strengthen evidence, review and assess the status, coverage and effectiveness of existing policies and programmes in light of the new international standards and to develop a plan for country and regional actions on HIV and AIDS in transport sectors, covering all modes of transport and defining roles for different stakeholder. The key issues discussed in this meeting included transport sub-sectors, evidence-based policies, vulnerable places and inadequate M&E frameworks. The following gaps were identified: sector policy and coordination; programme linkages; geographical coverage; gender sensitization; and finally, research focused on sectors other than road sectors. Recommendations were centered around a regional transport policy framework, required cooperation and coordination, holistic service provision and a focus on evidence-based initiatives. The countries represented in the workshop have developed framework plans. The International Labor Organization and other partners will work with selected focal points from each group to ensure that these plans are followed through and that progress on these is being made.
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