HIV/AIDS

The primary objective of the Group’s HIV/AIDS programme is to empower all its employees to take responsibility for their own lives.

2009	–	The focus was on Stress Awareness and Substance Abuse. On all levels employees received training on these critical areas and were empowered with knowledge which they could apply in their work arena as well as at home.
2008	–	During this period training on Personal and Financial Wellbeing took place. Personal Wellbeing added value to the self-esteem of employees whilst Financial Wellbeing concentrated on budget and risks at retirement.
2007	–	The HIV/AIDS programmes were consolidated into a Wellness Awareness Programme. This programme was introduced to all employees at the end of 2007.
2006	–	The focus has been, and will continue to be, on fighting the stigma attached to HIV/AIDS and to strengthen individuals by advocating the start-up of support groups, encouraging all to own the fight against HIV/AIDS and take control of their lives.
2005	–	The focus was on breaking down the stigma around HIV/AIDS through the services of a health promoter, Busi Maqungo, who herself is HIV-positive. Busi gave motivational talks at most of Pioneer Foods' branches around the country, sharing her personal experience and how, through support groups, she overcame challenges that nearly destroyed her life.
2004	–	The focus then shifted to wellness management, aiming to give hope and guidance to HIV-positive employees, as well as lifestyle guidance to also ensure that HIV-negative employees maintain their negative status.
2003	–	The focus was on training educators who then, along with consultants, trained employees throughout the Group on all the elements of HIV/AIDS. Voluntary testing for HIV was launched, resulting in 51% of the Group's employees being tested. The board and executive management of Pioneer Foods led by example and were the first to undergo HIV voluntary counselling and testing.