In an effort to increase awareness of HIV and AIDS, The National AIDS Commission (Belize) collaborated with the Ministry of Labour to provide a two-day workshop to key Labour Officers at the Best Western Biltmore on 15-16 March 2018. The training explored a variety of topics pertinent to HIV prevention and the effects of HIV-related workplace stigma and discrimination.

A total of 22 key Labour Department managers and administrators were present at the two-day workshop. Facilitators of the HIV training included Mr. Arthur Usher, Communication Officer of the National AIDS Commission, Mr. Keron Cacho, Programme Coordinator of the National AIDS Commission, Mr. Antonio Coyoc and Jevan Chavarria of Ministry of Health, Mrs. Eva Burgos of Go Belize, Ms. Derricia Salazar of Our Circle and Ms Dominique Noralez from The National Youth Council of Belize.

Facilitators presented on Belize’s HIV Statistics, the Belize Health and Information System, the concerns and issues surrounding Key Affected Populations in Belize and addressed the many ways in which the Ministry of Labour can assist in alleviating stigma and discrimination.

Facilitators also informed participants of Belize’s commitments to various international Human Rights and HIV service provision targets.

The NAC continues to maintain a dynamic and multi-sectoral approach to the HIV response in Belize.