Zimbabwe is facing a worsening public health crisis as the cost of condoms has surged to record levels in retail stores across the country.
Recent findings highlight that the price of condoms has dramatically increased, with the most affordable option, Protector Plus, now selling for nearly $1.50 per packet. Other brands, such as Fantasy and the globally recognized Carex, are priced at $3.20 and $3.30 per packet, respectively.
The sharp rise in prices is largely due to the cessation of funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
This funding cut stems from an executive order issued during the tenure of former U.S. President Donald Trump, which directed foreign aid programs to halt disbursements to certain countries, including Zimbabwe.
USAID had been responsible for supplying 98% of condoms in Zimbabwe, both for retail sales and free distribution. The funding freeze has significantly affected locally produced brands like Protector Plus, distributed by Population Solutions for Health (PSH) at cost-recovery prices.
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Condom Prices Compared to 2024
To understand the scale of the increase, it’s worth noting that in January 2024, two packets of Protector Plus condoms were available for just $1. By comparison, the cost of a single packet has now risen by 150%.
This sharp price hike has made condoms inaccessible for many, worsening the nation’s ongoing public health challenges.
Last year, PSH appealed to the government to remove value-added tax (VAT) and import duties on condoms, arguing that these taxes contribute to inflated prices.
Despite these recommendations, no action has been taken, and the problem has been further exacerbated by the halt in USAID support.
The price surge poses a significant threat to Zimbabwe’s efforts to combat HIV/AIDS. With condoms becoming less affordable, the risk of HIV transmission and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is expected to rise.
This is especially concerning given Zimbabwe’s status as one of the countries with the highest HIV prevalence rates globally.
