Kenya is grappling with a growing crisis in condom access due to reduced donor funding and high taxation, exacerbating the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancies.
Despite over a million new STI cases being recorded globally each day, Kenya struggles to provide adequate contraception, with 14% of those in need unable to access it. Young people remain the most vulnerable, accounting for 56.8% of all new infections.
To address this public health challenge, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Kenya marked International Condom Day (ICD) on February 13 with community outreach activities in Migori, Nairobi’s Mathare slums, and Kilifi. The events featured free condom distribution, STI and HIV testing, youth discussions, and awareness campaigns to promote safer sexual practices.
Speaking in Mathare, Anthony Kiplagat, Head of the HIV Programme in Nairobi County, emphasized the urgent need for targeted interventions among adolescents and young adults.
“In Nairobi County, we have made significant strides in HIV programming, particularly in reducing new infections,” he stated. “However, we face a challenge among adolescents and young people aged 15 to 24, who account for 30% of new HIV infections each year.”
Condom affordability remains a major hurdle due to Kenya’s taxation policies. Although condoms are a proven method for preventing HIV, STIs, and unplanned pregnancies, they are classified as medical devices and attract a 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) along with import duties, making them more expensive.
Dr. Penninah Lutung, AHF Africa Bureau Chief, urged the government to remove these financial barriers.
“Many Africans struggle to access condoms due to stockouts, high prices, and heavy taxation. We urge governments and stakeholders to increase funding and ensure free or affordable condoms reach everyone who needs them,” she said.
The crisis is worsened by reduced donor support for HIV prevention. In 2023 alone, global contributions to HIV programs fell by $358 million, leading to cutbacks in free condom distribution. Kenya now faces an annual shortage of nearly 100 million condoms.
To tackle the crisis, AHF Kenya Country Director Dr. Samuel Kinyanjui proposed a “whole-market approach” to condom distribution, advocating for a balance between free distribution, affordable pricing, and commercial sales.
“We propose that 50% of condoms be provided free and tax-exempt for lower-income individuals. Another 40% should be socially marketed at low cost, while 10% can be sold at premium prices without government incentives,” Dr. Kinyanjui explained.
Dr. Naomi Kahoro, Regional Retention Programme Coordinator at AHF Kenya, underscored the importance of increasing condom access for young women, noting that preventing unwanted pregnancies helps girls stay in school and improves their future opportunities.
