AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Zimbabwe says there is a need to remove all barriers in condom procurement to ensure improved access to condoms for all key populations, particularly artisanal miners.
The call was made ahead of International Condom Day (ICD) on February 13, established in response to the AIDS epidemic.
To mark the event, AHF will hold a commemorative event in Bulawayo at Hamara Market, offering education on condom use, free condom distribution, and encouraging regular condom usage.
According to a statement, the event will include HIV testing services and information dissemination from various organizations.
“A ‘condomise’ campaign concept will be incorporated, with flash mobs at five different venues targeting commuter omnibus drivers, conductors, touts, and informal traders,” the statement said.
AHF Zimbabwe will also offer free sanitary pad distribution, HIV testing services including Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC), contraception, and STI screening and treatment.
AHF Country Program Manager, Dr Ernest Chikwati, emphasised that condoms remain a crucial weapon in fighting HIV/STI transmission.
“We, therefore, need to ensure improved access to condoms for all key populations, including artisanal miners. To improve availability and access, we need to remove all barriers in condom procurement,” he said.
Dr. Chikwati suggested the Zimbabwean government consider waiving VAT on private sector condoms, making them more affordable.
AHF stated that for ICD 2024, they urge everyone worldwide to remember that condoms save lives and remain the best option for preventing HIV, other sexually transmitted infections, and unplanned pregnancies.
“According to the World Health Organisation, over 1 million people globally acquire an STI every day, and 117 million new HIV infections since 1990 have been averted thanks to condoms. This is why, on ICD and beyond, the world must remember – condoms are safe, sexy, and essential to ending HIV/AIDS,” they said.
