Condoms on high demand in Malawi flood camps

There is high condom use in many flood victims’ camps in Chikwawa, and people there are appealing for more of this protective gear.

Such camps include Sekeni 2, Jombo, Tizola, Chikuse, Malemia and Chabuka.

Although the demand suggests an increase in sexual activities, Senior Health Surveillance Assistant (HAS) at Nchalo Sydney Labeka told Mana on Friday that the demand meant people understood the existence of Sexually Transmitted Infections and the need to protect themselves.

“The district is moving into the right direction in the fight against HIV and Aids. This means we are improving on behavior change which has been a major contributing factor in the fight against HIV and Aids.

“Since January we have distributed close to 11,000 condoms but we are failing to meet the demand as all camps are demanding condoms always through their leaders.”

“As I am talking, more people are asking for condoms in the camps but the problem is that supply is always insufficient,” said Labeka.

According to Labeka, the demand was higher for male condoms than female condoms.

Erick Busha who is responsible for condom distribution at Tizola 2 camp appealed for more condoms.

“We need more condoms here and am appealing all stakeholders to avoid putting lives of people at risk,” said Busha.