Faculty Of Economics And Management Science Department Of Political And Administrative Studies

ABSTRACT

HIV / AIDS pandemic poses health a security threat to soldiers of any country in the world. In Namibia, soldiers of NDF at (Suiderhof) 21 Brigade are not spared to this pandemic. At Suiderhof military base where this study was conducted; HIV / AIDS workplace programme is being executed in various preventive activities. Despite HIV / AIDS workplace preventive activities in place, incidences of HIV / AIDS related illnesses are still afflicting health challenges in this unit.

It is against this background that an explorative and descriptive study of the reasons for persistent incidences of HIV infections among 21 Brigade members was undertaken, using both qualitative and quantitative approaches.

The purpose and objectives of the study is to explore and identify the reasons for continued incidences of HIV infections among 21 Brigade soldiers.

Specific objectives of the study are:

• To determine reasons for persistent incidences of HIV infections among soldiers of the 21 Brigade.

• To explore and identify the best approaches that will help soldiers of the 21 Brigade to protect themselves against HIV infections.

• To analyse the findings and make appropriate recommendations to the management.

It was reported the 21 Brigade commander that the unit has experienced increased negative effects on work performance. The study also revealed that medical boarding, resignations and deaths due to HIV / AIDS related illnesses was recorded. HIV / AIDS related sickness caused increased absenteeism and frequent sickness. Loss of skilled soldiers at all levels, increased

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replacement, additional expenditure and health costs. It was further reported that the most common negative aspect of HIV / AIDS, include reduced personal savings and increased income costs. Negative effects have socio-economic effects on the livelihood of the entire unit.

In conclusion, the study provides suggestions and recommendations to enable the unit- HIV / AIDS workplace programme to comprehensively implement their plans.