Condom shortage in Kenya

A vast majority of Kenyans have been forced to recycle used condoms after the country was hit hard by a shortage of condoms .Experts say heavy taxation of the mainly donor-funded product has limited its importation .

This has led to a surge in teenage pregnancy, HIV/Aids and resurgence of sexually transmitted illnesses among the youth.

Last year, about 20 million condoms were distributed to Kenyans for free under a programme funded by the Global Fund and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) however ,the delay in redistribution of the products has exposed vulnerable groups such as teenagers to the risk of unwanted pregnancies, HIV/Aids and STIs.

Earlier this year, a tax dispute between the government and donors who import anti-HIV drugs led to a shortage of the product.

Condom shortage

The Ministry of Health has promised to address the issue as soon as possible but has asked the public use other alternatives in the meantime.

Meanwhile Restaurants, hospitals ,hotels and public facilities that used to receive free condoms in their toilets have all run out of the product.

Kenya needs 455 million condoms annually while the government only provides 1.6 million per month.

Latest data from the National Aids Control Council indicates persons aged between 15 and 24 years have about four times HIV prevalence among females as compared to males.

The data further shows 61 per cent of all new HIV infections are being recorded among adolescents and young people in Kenya.

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