AHF Uganda Cares, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, has commemorated International Condom Day in Lukaya, Kalungu District, amid calls for improved access to condoms in high-risk communities.
The event also saw the official launch of the AHF Kalungu Wellness Clinic, presided over by Hon. Paddy Kayondo, the Resident District Commissioner.
Speaking at the event, Kalungu District Health Officer Dr. Ssentamu Daniel highlighted the urgent need for more condom dispensers in the area.
He pointed out that while Lukaya has numerous condom hotspots, the availability of dispensers remains insufficient, posing a significant challenge to public health efforts.
“Condom use is a key strategy in preventing HIV, STIs, and unplanned pregnancies. However, accessibility remains a major challenge for many in high-risk communities,” Dr. Ssentamu stated.
He urged the Ministry of Health to increase the distribution of condom dispensers in strategic locations to ensure those who need protection can access it without difficulty.
The newly inaugurated AHF Kalungu Wellness Clinic aims to bridge gaps in sexual and reproductive health services by providing free testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, including syphilis and HIV.
The clinic’s establishment is expected to enhance healthcare services in the district, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Henry Magala, Country Program Director of AHF Uganda Cares, reiterated the importance of condom accessibility, stating, “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.”
Dr. Penninah Lutung, AHF Africa Bureau Chief, further emphasised the barriers to condom access across the continent, citing stockouts, unaffordable prices, and restrictive taxation policies as key challenges.
“Condoms are the most cost-effective method of protecting against HIV and other STIs, yet many Africans lack access due to economic and regulatory hurdles. Additionally, classifying condoms as medical devices rather than consumer goods limits their availability. We must work together to address these challenges and ensure that condoms are widely accessible to all.”
With HIV and other STIs remaining a public health concern, stakeholders at the event called for stronger interventions, including increased public awareness campaigns and policy adjustments to enhance condom distribution and accessibility.
The commemoration of International Condom Day and the launch of the AHF Kalungu Wellness Clinic mark significant steps in the ongoing fight against HIV and sexually transmitted infections in Uganda. However, health officials stress that without improved access to condoms, efforts to curb the spread of infections and prevent unplanned pregnancies will remain hindered.