By Mohamed J. Kargbo
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Ministry of Health (MoH), and the National HIV/AIDS Secretariat (NAS), in partnership with key stakeholders, have officially launched the National Condom Strategy Plan (2025-2029).
The launch coincided with World Condom Day on February 14, 2025, at the New Brookfield’s Hotel in Freetown.
The five-year strategy aims to promote condom use, improve accessibility, and ensure the consistent availability of both male and female condoms for key populations, young people, and the general public.
Dr. Senessie, Deputy Minister of Health I, underscored the critical role of condoms in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, reducing unintended pregnancies, and lowering maternal mortality rates. He reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to minimizing STI infections among sexually active individuals aged 15-49.
Commending all partners involved in the strategy’s development, Dr. Senessie urged young people to serve as peer educators in promoting safe sex practices.
Sibeso Mululuma, UNFPA Country Representative, explained that the strategy was developed through an inclusive process involving government ministries, non-governmental and community-based organizations, policymakers, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions.
Despite ongoing efforts, condom use remains critically low due to limited education, weak community engagement, and socio-cultural and religious barriers. However, she expressed optimism that the new strategy would increase condom use nationwide.
She also outlined key strengths and weaknesses in the country’s condom programming. She said existing policies and guidelines, clearly identified target groups, and strong donor commitment.
The weaknesses, she said include lack of coordination among partners and government agencies, quality control issues for imported condoms, and deep-seated social and cultural barriers including patriarchal norms and religious beliefs.
Expected impact of the National Condom Strategy and the plan aims are to increase condom use by 50% by 2029, reduce STI and HIV transmission rates, prevent unintended pregnancies and empower individuals with skills, knowledge, and resources to make informed sexual health decisions.
Abdul Raheem Sesay, Director of NAS, echoed the sentiments of previous speakers and reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to combating HIV/AIDS. He emphasized that the National Condom Strategy Plan is a crucial step in strengthening HIV prevention efforts and enhancing sexual and reproductive health education in Sierra Leone.
The launch marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s public health response, with stakeholders optimistic that the strategy will drive positive change in condom accessibility, education, and usage across the country.
