Kenya at position 46 of 54 countries, des Kenya is already exploring a future with fewer or no free condoms because of the increasing uncertainty about US funding.
The outlook is bleak. The country buys most of its ‘free’ condoms using money from the Global Fund, which is mostly funded by the United States.
The National Syndemic Diseases Control Council said it is already discussing with manufacturers to increase their market share by providing cheap condoms.
Currently, most Kenyans use the free condoms distributed by the government.
In Nigeria, low-cost priced condoms make up 60 per cent of the market, compared to only 14 per cent in Kenya.
“Kenya is implementing a condom ‘Total Market Approach’ to ensure everyone can access condoms at an affordable price, including free public outlet and dispensers for distribution for those unable to purchase them,” NSDCC chief executive officer Dr Ruth Masha said.
“This is guided by the global dynamics that have led to dwindling donor support compounded by limited domestic resources to sustain free condoms for all populations,” she said in a speech.
NSDCC’s Director of Health Promotion Dr Stephen Ndolo read the speech on her behalf during the International Condoms Day 2025 on February13.
Dr Masha urged the private sector investors to dive into the market to help bridge the gap between demand and supply, ensuring a sustainable condom supply.
“A vibrant economy presents opportunities for private sector growth and local manufacturing, which will strengthen the supply chain and reduce dependency on imports,” she said.
A 2018 survey revealed that 70 per cent of condom users in Kenya were willing to purchase condoms if the free ones are unavailable.
Currently, the cheapest pack of three condoms in Kenya costs Sh54. Studies show a Kenyan man uses only about 15 condoms in one year.
The US is the largest donor to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, contributing more than $1.5 billion annually.
Model simulations estimate that the current levels of HIV would be five times higher without condom use.
About 1.4 million Kenyans are living with HIV. Correct and consistent condom use provides as much as 95 per cent protection against HIV, other STIs, and unintended pregnancy. Dr Masha said condom use should go hand in hand with behaviour change.
“This should start with the basics of abstinence, being faithful to one sexual partner who is equally faithful to you and correctly, and consistently using condoms,” the CEO said.
