Call for increased domestic support for condom procurement

By Hamu Madzedze

Population Solutions for Health (PSH) has called for the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) and import duty for condoms.

In a statement commemorating International Condom Day PSH ,the distributor of Protector Plus condoms said increased domestic support for condom procurement will make condoms more affordable in the market and secure the future availability of condoms without donor funding.

"The shortage of domestic funding for condom procurement and related programming has seen the commercial sector's condom supply decreasing over the past two decades partly due to higher taxes on condoms which make commercial condoms expensive and unviable"said PSH

The health organisation added that it is actively supporting the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) in developing a sustainable condom market that promotes long-term condom use with reduced reliance on donor funding.

"A key aspect of this effort is advocating for increased domestic funding for condoms and removal of VAT and import duty "

PSH pointed out that despite Zimbabwe recording considerable success in condom programming there has been a reduction in donor funding over the years negatively impacting funding for public and social marketing sector condoms which serve the marginalised communities and low-income earners.

"By addressing challenges in the market significant progress can be made in preventing HIV, STI's and unintended pregnancies"

The health organisation reiterated its commitment to advancing condom programming and expanding access to quality sexual and reproductive health services.