The Business Coalition Against HIV/AIDS (BUCAHA), in collaboration with the Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), recently held a one-day private sector sensitisation forum on HIV/AIDS at the Independent Stadium, Bakau.

Established in 2007 to enhance the response of the business sector against HIV/AIDS, BUCAHA is a registered organisation housed at the First International Bank headquarters, along Kairaba Avenue.

Speaking at the ceremony, Beatrice A Prom, chairperson of BUCAHA, said the organisation welcomes on board other organisations in the country, adding that they are working relentlessly to meet their goals.

Mam Cherno Jallow, CEO of GCCI, said the coalition was set up by the private sector and for the private sector, saying that "our role as GCCI is to spearhead the coalition in achieving its objectives. There is a need for proactive efforts to eradicate HIV/AIDS".

"Without a healthy workforce, no development takes off. As one of the first activities of the coalition, there is a need for all the members of the coalition to know their status," he said.

On the overview of the organisation, Julius Freeman, president of BUCAHA, said their mission is to maintain a healthy environment that is responsive to the needs of employees.

Other speakers at the ceremony included Nuha Ceesay of UNAIDS, Pa Modou Sonko of Africmed, and Isatou Bah of Jabot Labolatory.