HIV and AIDS at LMPS

Like all the other government bodies in Lesotho, LMPS is well aware of the problems facing its personnel regarding HIV and AIDS. It is also aware of the problems faced by the nation in the various locations of the country. To combat this problem, the police service has embarked heavily of policies which protect those who are vulnerable to this pandemic.

Background

LMPS HIV/ AIDS and Counseling Unit was established on the 5^th January 2003.

The reason for the establishment :

Ų Maintain good health of LMPS employees for the effectiveness and efficient production in this demanding democratic society.

Ų Reduce spread of HIV/ AIDS.

Ų Mitigate the impacts of HIV/ AIDS pandemic.

Ų Provide care and support to affected and infected members of LMPS, their families and community at large.

Successes

About 50 Police Officers were trained as Counselors, 110 Care Givers, and 79 Focal Persons.

HIV/ AIDS workshops were held in all the 13 police districts for LMPS members in all levels. The workshops aimed at creating and strengthening awareness on HIV/ AIDS issues, sensitizing personnel about behavioral changes and encouraging people to know their status.

Information, Education and Communication materials such as video players and cassettes were purchased and distributed to different districts for educational purpose and entertainment to avoid personnel of risky behaviours due to boredom.

HIV/ AIDS lectures are included in the curriculum for every police officer undergoing training at Police Training College .

There is an distribution of protection gloves, male and female condoms to our personnel and to the community at large.

Promotion of Voluntary Counseling and Testing is highly administrated as this is an important tool in preventing and managing HIV/ AIDS.

Lastly, the association of people living with HIV/ AIDS within the organization has been established.

LMPS belongs to the Ministry of Home Affairs and Public Safety.

As a result, it is bound by all the principles governing this ministry with regards to the protection of those confronted with the problems associated with HIV and AIDS.