ABSTRACT
The De Beers human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immuno-deficiency syndrome (HIV/Aids) Programme includes treatment for employees and spouses—a fairly unique design in the broader mining industry. The De Beers HIV/Aids programme is not only an investment in people but is also a clear corporate response to the economic impact of HIV/Aids on the company. With a view to minimising the impact of HIV/Aids on the organisation and its people, and the vision of being a key partner in broader HIV/Aids solutions, the De Beers HIV/Aids strategy has four objectives. They are saving lives, living with HIV/Aids, minimising the economic impact of HIV/Aids, and communications and stakeholder engagement. In South Africa, the joint HIV/Aids Workplace Policy, co-signed by De Beers and the National Union of Mineworkers, formalises a shared commitment to protect employees. De Beers provides for the management of sexually transmitted infections, including testing, treatment and monitoring at its healthcare facilities.
