Perceptions of employers about HIV/AIDS in Micro and small enterprises employing women workers : A case study of Harare

HIV/AIDS has a negative impact on economic activity. The study seeks to assess the impact of HIV/AIDS on the Micro and Small Enterprise (MSE) sector by assessing the perceptions of employers and employees. The study focuses on the MSE sector, which employs a majority of women. Little research has been done on this area and it is expected that the findings of the study will prove useful to stakeholders. The service industry was elected for the study because it employs a majority of women. About 68 percent of the respondents are women. Within the industry, 30 enterprises comprising salons, cafes and travel agencies were selected. An interview guide was used to collect data from employers and employees on perceptions on HIV./AIDS in their workplaces, and information on awareness and prevention methods. The study found that enterprises employing women were perceived to have a relatively low incidence of HIV/AIDS. Men were perceived to be at a higher risk of exposure to HIV/AIDS because of their promiscuous behaviour. However, it was felt that HIV/AIDS had affected productivity in these enterprises mainly through absenteeism and death. It was also found that both employers and employees in these enterprises had a high level of awareness of HIV/AIDS. However, respondents felt that cultural barriers made it difficult for women to protect themselves from HIV. All enterprises had some prevention methods in place. However, it was found that enterprises characterised by a high level of contact between employees and clients had a higher use of prevention methods.