Abstract
In Uganda, the use and availability of male condoms is essential to preventing unplanned pregnancy and the spread of diseases such as HIV/AIDS. From 1992 to 2002, Uganda successfully reduced the prevalence of HIV/AIDS from 18% to approximately 6%; however, some concerning trends are emerging and HIV prevalence has increased with an estimated 7.3% of adults currently infected. Despite some opposition from religious and political leaders, male condoms continue to be an important part of Uganda’s national strategy for HIV prevention, and the dual protection offered by condoms is a key component of reproductive health programs.
In Uganda’s current market, the number of condoms needed to protect all sexual acts from HIV infection and unplanned pregnancy (universe of need) is much higher than the actual number of condoms on the market (volume). Condom use among the general population has increased, but overall demand still remains low, which helps explain why volumes are also low. Rates of use are higher among youth, but have decreased within some groups, including males with casual partners and females with multiple partners. In addition, equitable distribution of free or subsidized condoms has not improved since 2006: individuals in the wealthiest quintile were still much more likely to report condom use than those in poorer quintiles.
