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AHF Uganda Cares, Ministry of Health mark international condom day

13 February 2025, 7:08 pm

By Byamukama Alozious

AHF Uganda Cares, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, commemorated International Condom Day in Lukaya, Kalungu District. The event coincided with the launch of the AHF Kalungu Wellness Clinic, officiated by Hon. Paddy Kayondo, the Resident District Commissioner.

During the commemoration, Kalungu District Health Officer, Dr. Ssentamu Daniel, raised concerns over the limited availability of condom dispensers despite the presence of several condom hotspots in the area. He emphasised that while condom use is widely recognised as a key strategy in preventing HIV, STIs, and unplanned pregnancies, accessibility remains a challenge for many.

He noted that Lukaya, a high-risk area with multiple hotspots, has a high demand for condoms. However, the number of public condom dispensers is inadequate, making it difficult for people to access protection when they need it most.

Hon. Paddy Kayondo, the Resident District Commissioner, officiating the opening of the clinic.

The clinic will offer free sexual and reproductive health services, including testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as syphilis and HIV, among others.

Dr. Ssentamu called upon the Ministry of Health to increase the supply of condom dispensers in strategic locations to ensure condoms are readily available, especially in high-risk communities. He also urged local leaders and stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns on condom use and sexual health to help curb the spread of HIV and other STIs.

Henry Magala, Country Program Director of AHF Uganda Cares, reiterated the importance of condom use. “We continue to advocate for the availability, accessibility, and utilisation of condoms in the community. Condoms reduce the risk of HIV infections and other STIs by 95%. They also prevent unplanned pregnancies. The benefits outweigh the consequences of not using a condom, you have to use it.”

Henry Magala, Country Program Director, AHF Uganda Cares.

Dr. Penninah Lutung, AHF Africa Bureau Chief, emphasised the need for increased access to condoms. “Condoms are the most cost-effective method of protecting against HIV and other STIs, yet many Africans lack access due to barriers such as stockouts, unaffordable prices, and high taxation. Additionally, labeling condoms as medical devices rather than consumer goods can limit access. We must work together to address these challenges and ensure that condoms are widely available and accessible to all.”