SOUTH AFRICA: Broadcasters agree on AIDS awareness declaration

JOHANNESBURG, 6 Oct 2005 (PLUSNEWS) - Media leaders from 20 African countries signed an HIV/AIDS declaration on Wednesday in Johannesburg, South Africa, after a three-day summit to discuss their role in tackling the pandemic.

According to the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), issues such as how to send clear AIDS awareness messages were on the agenda.

Dali Mpofu, the SABC Group Chief Executive Officer, said, "Signing the declaration represents a significant first step for organisations to commit themselves to embarking on similar initiatives across the continent."

Mpofu noted that greater awareness would also be incorporated in his own organisation's editorial policies, with the aim of transforming the workplace.

The declaration is to be implemented immediately and media groups have agreed to meet again in a year's time to assess progress.

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