Turizam Volume 19, Issue 2-1
EMPLOYEE PERCEPTIONS OF HIV & AIDS ON THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY IN ZIMBABWE
Authors: Forbes Kabote, Freddy Hamadziripi, Sebastian Vengesayi, Felisitas Chimutingiza, Theresa T Makoni
Abstract: HIV & AIDS prevalence is causing lots of deaths in the hospitality industry affecting the most productive population. The study was conducted to explore employee perceptions of HIV & AIDS on the hospitality industry. Using qualitative research philosophy data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires from employees at selected hotel establishments. The data was analyzed thematically. Two critical themes emerged from the study. Firstly HIV & AIDS was being treated as a taboo subject and secondly; there are no clear organizational policies on HIV & AIDS. The researchers concluded that hospitality organizations are still ignorant of devastating existence of HIV & AIDS. Three recommendations were made from the study. Hospitality establishments should embrace the fact that HIV & AIDS exist, Organizations should work with employees to produce workable policies and that organizations should take heed of government efforts in tackling HIV & AIDS and do their part in this international cause.
Keywords: HIV & AIDS, Hospitality Industry, HIV positive employees.
Article info: 47-55
Received: September 2014 | Accepted: May 2015