Planning for HIV/AIDS in the Department of Public Enterprises

Abstract

The HIV/AIDS epidemic is growing at an alarming rate in the Southern African region, including South Africa. The impact of the epidemic on the socio-economy of South Africa, as well as the South African Public Service, needs to be properly understood so that appropriate measures can be put in place to address the challenges resulting from the epidemic. The article focuses on an evaluation of the planning function used in the implementation of HIV/AIDS policies in the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE). The research methodology used for the article is qualitative in nature and uses interviews and a questionnaire to evaluate employee perceptions regarding the implementation of departmental HIV/AIDS policies. The article further describes the legal framework supporting the appropriate management of HIV/AIDS in the Public Service. It further reviews the initiatives that have been established in planning for HIV/AIDS in the DPE; identifies the planning challenges that are experienced by the DPE in managing HIV/AIDS effectively; and makes recommendations towards successful implementation. Without an appropriate response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the DPE will be unable to maintain its mandate in assuring the proper functioning of state-owned enterprises.