No Condom , No Sex : Health Officials Urge Condom Use Ahead of Valentine’s Day

 As Valentine’s Day approaches, government and health experts have urged couples planning intimate celebrations to use condoms consistently and correctly to prevent HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies.

The call comes ahead of World Condom Day marked on February 13.

Director General of Health Services at the Ministry of Health, Dr Charles Olaro, warned that despite progress in HIV prevention and treatment, the virus remains a serious public health threat.

He advised revellers to prioritise protection during celebrations, stressing that condoms must not only be available but also properly used.

Health officials expressed concern about risky sexual behaviour among young people, noting that new infections continue to occur among adolescents and young adults.

According to the Ministry of Health, condom distribution has increased to about 150 million annually, although demand currently stands at approximately 200 million.

Bonface Epoku, the programme officer in charge of condom programming at the ministry, said condom use has significantly contributed to preventing new infections. He noted that nearly half of prevented HIV infections are attributed to condom use.

The World Health Organisation states that when used correctly and consistently, condoms provide up to 98 percent protection against HIV and other STIs.

Haruna Semuwemba, Prevention Manager at AHF Uganda Cares, said condom advocacy campaigns have improved uptake, with about 63 million condoms distributed by the organisation between 2018 and 2026.

However, health experts say gaps remain, particularly among young people who often do not consistently use protection.

Dr Francis Engwau, Programme Analyst for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights and HIV at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), warned that failure to use condoms not only increases the risk of HIV but also other STIs, some of which can cause infertility.

Data from the Uganda AIDS Commission indicates that new HIV infections have declined from about 100,000 annually to 37,000, representing a 61 percent reduction since 2010, partly due to prevention strategies including condom use.

As the country marks Valentine’s Day, officials are urging the public to celebrate responsibly and make safe choices to sustain gains in the fight against HIV/AIDS.