A shortage of condoms has struck Sanyati district, encompassing the gold-mining hub of Kadoma, known for prevalent commercial sex work, raising concerns about potential risky behavior and setbacks in HIV/AIDS prevention efforts.

Condoms are not easily accessible at key dispensing points, nor are they available for purchase in pharmacies, posing risks for increased HIV and STI transmission rates and unwanted pregnancies.

During a provincial stakeholders’ meeting in Chinhoyi, Sanyati district AIDS coordinator, Amnot Chipandambira, described the situation as critical: “We have a condom crisis in the Sanyati district.”

Chipandambira highlighted the absence of condoms in Kadoma General Hospital, pharmacies, and community clinics, indicating an urgent need for intervention.

To address the immediate shortage, efforts are underway to identify clinics with available stocks for redistribution to areas facing severe deficits. Long-term solutions are also being pursued.

Stakeholders acknowledged intermittent shortages in neighboring districts such as Makonde and Zvimba, prompting discussions on redistributing available resources.

National AIDS Council (NAC) provincial manager, David Nyamurera, assured stakeholders of adequate logistical support to facilitate equitable and timely condom distribution, minimizing risks of unsafe sexual practices.

Delays in condom distribution have been attributed to the process involving the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ), which tests and certifies condom quality before distribution by the National Pharmaceutical Company (NatPharm) to various health service providers, including the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC). These delays have contributed to the shortage issue.