By KT Reporter
Health advocates have called on the government to scrap additional certification and inspection fees charged on condoms, arguing that the extra costs are limiting donations and affecting the distribution of free condoms across the country.
Speaking during the International Condom Day celebrations held at the Tooro Kingdom headquarters in Mucwa, Fort Portal City on Friday, Dr. Wilson Kazoora the Quality Improvement Manager at AHF Uganda Cares said that although government scrapped taxes on imported condoms, partners still incur certification, examination and verification fees at the National Drug Authority and these charges discourage partners who would have donated more condoms to Uganda.
He appealed to the government to further ease the process by reducing or scrapping the certification fees and strengthening funding for the condom unit at the Ministry of Health to boost nationwide distribution.
Dr. Kazoora also decried limited sexual and reproductive health education among Ugandans, saying many lack accurate information to make healthy choices, such as correct and consistent condom use.
The national celebrations were this year taken to Fort Portal City to raise awareness about condom use among young people, as the city reportedly has the highest HIV prevalence rate in the country.
According to the Uganda AIDS Commission, HIV prevalence in Fort Portal City stands at 14.3%, significantly higher than the national prevalence of 5.1%.
International Condom Day is observed annually on February 13, a day before Valentine’s Day. The day was initiated by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation to promote safer sex, encourage condom use, and raise awareness about HIV prevention.
Catherine Kemigabo, the Kabarole District Health Educator, said condoms are 99.9 percent effective if used correctly, consistently, and properly packaged.
She, however, expressed concern over low uptake among the youth despite free distribution efforts. Kemigabo said that although health officials have ensured free condom distribution and continuous sensitization, many young people still hold negative myths about condom use.
She dismissed misconceptions that condoms reduce pleasure, cause cancer, or can dissolve inside the body, describing them as false.
Nicholas Mugume, the Youth Minister for Tooro Kingdom, asked the government and partners to create safe spaces where young people can freely ask questions, seek guidance, and make informed decisions about their health.
He urged youth to take responsibility for their lives by protecting themselves and making smart choices.
Patrick Amanyire Kasoro, the Youth Councilor for Fort Portal City North Division, encouraged young people not to feel shy about buying condoms and to prioritize protection against HIV and unwanted pregnancies.
Lilian Mayombo, a youth from Fort Portal, said negative misconceptions have discouraged many young people from using condoms and appealed for more awareness campaigns on their benefits. Rosette Kihunde advised fellow youth to consistently use condoms to prevent unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.
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