Ugandans called on to use condoms to prevent unwanted pregnancies and HIV

29 February 2024, 1:58 pm

By Byamukama Alozious

During a monthly media cafe at Kamwokya hosted by Health Journalism Network Uganda, Dr. Boniface Epoku, head of condoms program at Ministry of Health said that only 37% of women prefer using condoms and 57% of men. 26.4% of 15-24 years old young women also trust and use condoms for their effectiveness.

Government of Uganda purchase 280 million condoms annually and spends at least 1UDS before it reaches final user. “Many think condoms are free but we input a lot from purchasing, transportation and storage”, Epoku said.

The research points out that condoms can be 98% effective on preventing unwanted pregnancies and 60%-96% effective on preventing HIV.

Although government purchase female condoms, the uptake is at only 1%. This is due to lack of knowledge on how to use them and awareness and misinformation.

Gloria Nakawooya, communication specialist, said that many condoms do not meet expectations due to lack of proper storage. “I normally see condoms hanged on windows, trees and affected by pollution and high temperatures which make them weak”, she said

Dr. Boniface Epoku pointed out that heat, sun, oils and chemicals all can weaken condoms making them easier to breakage and call upon all district condom forcal persons to make awareness on this matter for community members to know this information.

Recently, members of public were complaining that condoms available in the country are small size however Ministry of Health says they have got size 53mm to 56mm which are able to fit penis size.

Ministry of Health wants a push on condom use to be at 98% and use it as the main tool to preventing HIV, unwanted pregnancies, and hepatitis among others and calls up on other ministries, non-governmental organizations, agencies and departments to join them.