International Condom Day seeks to promote the use of condoms as a means of preventing unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
As UNFPA in Eswatini we strive to support the capacity strengthening in the country in ensuring that there is Comprehensive Condom Programming (CCP) that meet the needs of all population especially young people. The Country Office has been instrumental in ensuring that condoms are programmed for, are affordable and of good quality to available to everyone who needs them. As it is key to note that the male and female condoms are the ONLY HIV PREVENTION PRODUCTS/DEVICE available that are cost effective and can have positive return on investments which can ensure that the country reach its goal of ending AIDS by 2022.
In commemorating the International Condom Day, I would personally encourage every individual especially young people, to ensure that they are safe from unintended pregnancies, HIV and STIs by using condoms correctly and consistently including the female condom. I would urge the government, partners and stakeholders to ensure that more options for accessibility are ensured countrywide and demand creation is maximized such that in all our service delivery points there is a condom.
Let’s strive to make condoms popular by strengthening strategies and programmes for all sexually-active persons at risk of HIV/STI or unintended pregnancy by being safe and CONDOMIZING at all times!