HEAD of epidemiology and AIDS at the Ministry of Health and Environment, Professor Peter Figueroa, is calling on the church and the private sector to step up their fight against the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Speaking with reporters after the declaration of World AIDS Day by Governor General Sir Kenneth Hall at King's House on Thursday, Professor Figueroa explained that while these sectors have already taken measures to help in the fight to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS, there are some areas which need strengthening.

Professor Peter Figueroa (right), head of epidemiology and AIDS in the Ministry of Health and Environment, receives the proclamation of World AIDS Day from Governor General Sir Kenneth Hall Thursday at King's House. (Photo: Lionel Rookwood)

"I would love to see more churches becoming involved and taking on a discussion among their congregation and their members, especially among young people," he said. "When they have their Sunday classes and they are doing their religious education, to look at social issues as well because it is natural that young people are going to be drawn into sexual activity."

Professor Figueroa said it must not be denied that even though the church is against fornication, youngsters do become sexually active.

"Sexual activity is a natural urge and it is going to occur, and it is better that we recognise this and set our young people to better prepare themselves," he said.

He also noted that the private sector has increasingly played a critical role in helping to deal with HIV, however, there is a need for the strengthening of the multi-sectoral response.

"Quite a number of private sector firms have developed workplace policy and programmes, but what we would like see is every employer take into account when they are preparing their plans and their budgets integrating HIV and other socials issues into their planning and budgeting for the year," he said.

The private sector, he added, should have a clear policy against discrimination and encourage HIV testing among the workforce, but not as a screening process for employment. Additionally, he said a support programme should be established for persons affected by HIV/AIDS.

World AIDS Day will be celebrated on December 1 under the theme 'Leadership for Life'.

"We are encouraging all our leaders to individually take the initiative with respect to HIV/AIDS in Jamaica and help us to overcome this epidemic," Professor Figueroa emphasised.
On Thursday, the governor general said there were some positive indicators that the fight against HIV/AIDS is not in vain. The ministry, he said, "moved HIV/AIDS from the underground and put it I hope on the highways."

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