THE RECENT SUSPENSION of U.S. foreign aid has cast a shadow over Zimbabwe’s efforts to combat HIV/AIDS, a disease that continues to pose a significant public health challenge in the country.
The Explainer has gathered that the abrupt halt in funding has led to a sharp increase in condom prices, raising concerns about the potential for increased transmission rates.
A survey by iHarare indicates that the most affordable condom option, Protector Plus, now costs nearly $1.50 per packet, while other brands like Fantasy and Carex are priced at $3.20 and $3.30, respectively.
This surge follows the suspension of USAID funding, a consequence of an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Explainer notes that USAID has historically supported the procurement and distribution of 98% of all condoms in Zimbabwe, both for sale and free distribution. The halt in funding has severely impacted locally available condom brands, such as Protector Plus, which are sold in shops for cost recovery.
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The Explainer has learned that the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has been a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s healthcare support since 2006. According to the U.S. Embassy in Zimbabwe, the U.S. government has invested over $1.7 billion in Zimbabwe since 2006 to strengthen health systems and support people living with HIV.
Additionally, PEPFAR contributes nearly $90 million annually to support salaries and incentives for healthcare workers in Zimbabwe, including nurses, laboratory scientists, social workers, and community health workers.
The Explainer notes that Zimbabwe has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates globally. According to the latest UNAIDS estimates, in 2023, approximately 1.3 million people in Zimbabwe were living with HIV, with an adult prevalence of 10.5%. The Explainer has gathered that the condom shortage threatens to escalate the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, as access to affordable preventive measures becomes increasingly limited.
