Zimbabweans used 80 million condoms in 2014

At least 80 million condoms were distributed under the national programme last year, the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC) has revealed.

The condoms cost $25 million. ZNFPC, a parastatal mandated to coordinate, implement and monitor the provision of integrated sexual reproductive health, family planning and HIV and Aids services in Zimbabwe, said the uptake of the female condom remains low.

"Over 77 000 000 male condoms and 3 600 000 female condoms were distributed in 2014," said ZNFPC marketing and communications manager, Simon Chikwizo.

"More than 76 600 000 male condoms and 3 500 000 female condoms were distributed in 2013 to nationwide public sector outlets.

"In the year 2014 alone, an estimated amount of $23 125 000 was spent on the purchase of male condoms and an estimated amount of $2,1 million was also spent on female condoms purchase."

Chikwizo said although government and partners are working tirelessly to guarantee availability and access to condoms, education on use of the infection preventive latex remains central in bringing down infections.

In studies, consistent use of condoms has been found to be 80 percent effective in reducing HIV incidence.

However, experts are concerned with the lack of consistency in condom use by Zimbabwean consumers.