In Zimbabwe, a troubling crisis is unfolding as s3x workers turn to unconventional contraceptive methods, including the use of baby socks, due to a reported shortage of c0nd0ms in various communities.
Although the government denies any national c0nd0m shortage, localized supply issues have surfaced, particularly in areas such as Epworth, Mutare, Masvingo, Harare, and Seke, prompting s3x workers to express their concerns about the situation.
Precious Musindo, founder of Springs of Life Zimbabwe—a s3x worker-led organization—characterizes the current predicament as catastrophic. “We are facing a challenge accessing c0nd0ms.
Supplies are limited, so as s3x workers, we are opting to use newborn baby socks. You fold them, insert them, and they prevent fluids and sp3rm from reaching the c3rvix,” she explained in an interview with HealthTimes.
ALSO READ; WATCH: Controversial bedr00m video of Mugabe’s son surfaces online?
Once damp, these socks are removed, washed, and reused the following day. Disturbingly, in some neighborhoods such as Komboni Yatsva in Epworth, s3x workers are reportedly scavenging for socks discarded by mothers.
The shortage of c0nd0ms has been attributed to a variety of factors, including delays in restocking by health facilities, hoarding by some individuals, and allegations of misappropriation by healthcare workers. Furthermore, many s3x workers are struggling to access healthcare services amid economic challenges, leading some to ignore sexually transmitted infections (STIs) just to make ends meet.
Efforts to address the issue have involved engagement with the National AIDS Council (NAC) and other key stakeholders, though challenges remain.
Dr. Bernard Madzima, CEO of the NAC, refuted claims of a condom shortage, asserting, “As far as I am concerned, there is no shortage of c0nd0ms in Zimbabwe. We have enough stocks in the country.” He highlighted that current discussions are focused on future condom funding beyond 2025, indicating that supplies in the public sector are adequate at present.
Despite assurances, concerns loom over future condom availability, especially as major donors like the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Global Fund have announced plans to withdraw funding for condom programs by 2026. Farai Machinga, head of the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council, acknowledged the need for support in affected communities, saying, “We still have buffer stocks of condoms and sufficient supplies for users. It’s critical to understand the specific areas and the factors causing these unmet needs.”
Currently, public sector condoms, primarily funded by PEPFAR, account for 77% of usage in Zimbabwe, with social marketing brands at 22% and private sector options at just 1%. This disparity raises alarm as donor support diminishes.
The reliance on risky alternatives like baby socks highlights the urgent need for improved and reliable condom distribution in vulnerable communities. There is an immediate call for stakeholders to act swiftly to avert a potential public health crisis.
