Price of Condoms Skyrockets As Trump Cuts Off HIV Funding For Developing Countries

Date: 29-01-2025 7:20 pm (3 months ago) | Author: kacy lee
- at 29-01-2025 07:20 PM (3 months ago)
(f)

Zimbabwe is grappling with a worsening public health crisis as condom prices soar to unprecedented levels in retail shops across the country.

A recent survey by iHarare revealed that the cheapest option, Protector Plus, now costs nearly $1.50 per packet, while Fantasy condoms are priced at $3.20, and the internationally recognized Carex brand costs $3.30.

The surge in prices has been linked to the halt in USAID funding, a consequence of an executive order signed by former US President Donald Trump. The directive cut foreign aid funding, including USAID’s support for Zimbabwe, which previously accounted for 98% of the country’s condom supply—both for sale and free distribution. Local brands like PSH’s Protector Plus, which were sold on a cost-recovery basis, have been particularly affected by this funding gap.

To illustrate the impact, condom prices have risen sharply in just one year. In January 2024, two packets of Protector Plus condoms could be bought for $1. Today, a single packet costs 150% more, making condoms unaffordable for many Zimbabweans.

Last year, Population Solutions for Health (PSH) called on the government to remove value-added tax (VAT) and import duties on condoms to address rising prices. However, no action has been taken, and the suspension of USAID funding has further exacerbated the issue.

The price hike poses significant risks to public health, particularly in Zimbabwe’s battle against HIV/AIDS. With condoms becoming increasingly inaccessible, the country faces a heightened risk of HIV transmission and other s£xually transmitted infections (STIs).

This is especially concerning given Zimbabwe’s status as one of the countries with the highest HIV prevalence rates globally.


Posted: at 29-01-2025 07:20 PM (3 months ago) | Addicted Hero
- gogoman at 29-01-2025 07:33 PM (3 months ago)
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ALL OF YOUR COUNTRIES GOVERNMENT SHOULD BUY AND PAY FOR HIV DRUG!!! UNITED STATES IS NOT YOUR PAPA!!!!!  BUY YOUR OWN DRUG FOR YOUR OWN CITIZEN!!!!!  NICE ONE KING TRUMP!!!! Cool Cool Cool
Posted: at 29-01-2025 07:33 PM (3 months ago) | Grande Master
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- fineboy77 at 29-01-2025 08:11 PM (3 months ago)
(m)
 Grin Grin Grin

Posted: at 29-01-2025 08:11 PM (3 months ago) | Addicted Hero
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- Holopid at 31-01-2025 08:50 AM (3 months ago)
(f)
 Grin Grin Grin
Posted: at 31-01-2025 08:50 AM (3 months ago) | Gistmaniac
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