Red flag over condom distribution disconnect
ZIMBABWE has recorded a rise in condom distribution but this has not translated into use of the contraceptives, country programme manager of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation Dr Ernest Chikwati has said.
This, he said, explains why annually, more condoms are distributed than the prior year, yet a rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is recorded.
“Yes, condom distribution has been going up over the years,” said Dr Chikwati.
“However, my own opinion is whether this can be translated into condom use. I am not convinced that all condoms distributed are actually used.”
He said there is need for more research to expose this disparity and “find out what the population uses the condoms for, when they take them”.
Dr Chikwati said in some cases, the distribution of condoms is not corresponding with the needs of specific areas.
“The other issue is inequitable distribution of condoms. Some areas where there is a high rate of HIV and STI transmission have shortages of condoms. So, we can say we have distributed so many condoms, but how many of those reach the artisanal miner (high risk population) in Gwanda, Mazowe or Kwekwe?
“Distribution must address demand and supply. Condoms may be in cities, where they are not in high demand. So, when STIs rise, it could be an issue of condom avalanche, where they are not in demand.”
According to Dr Chikwati, not all STIs can be prevented by condom use.
“A case in point is an infection such as herpes. This can still be transmitted even when someone is wearing a condom because the virus causing it can affect private parts not covered by the condom.”
Research undertaken in a peri-urban informal settlement showed that there was higher prevalence of condom use among youths and those who do not strictly follow religion.
About 143 million condoms were distributed in Zimbabwe in 2017, with uptake of the female condom low due to misconceptions. The number dropped to 81 million male condoms in 2020, probably due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
In 2021, uptake rose to 108 million male condoms, while 3,4 million female condoms were distributed. In 2022, the figure for male condoms increased to 119,6 million, while female contraceptives dropped to 1,6 million.
Figures from the Ministry of Health and Child Care show a worrying increase in STIs. A total of 28 538 cases of genital ulcers were recorded in 2021, with this infection increasing to 36 267 in 2022.
A total of 61 108 urethra discharge cases were recorded in 2021, before spiking to 79 194 in 2022.
Vaginal discharge stood at 77 347 in 2021, rising a year later to 79 194.
A recent visit to Guruve in Mashonaland Central revealed that there was a shortage of condoms after a prominent musician performed in the area.