By Michael Gwarisa
Sex workers in Zimbabwe claim they have resorted to using unconventional methods, including baby socks, as contraceptives due to condom shortages in some communities. While the government denies any national shortage, localized supply issues have been reported.
These shortages are attributed to several factors, including delayed restocking by health facilities, hoarding by some sex workers, and healthcare workers allegedly misappropriating condoms.
Communities such as Epworth, Mutare, Masvingo, Harare, and Seke have been particularly affected, with sex workers raising alarms about the dire situation.
Speaking to HealthTimes, Precious Musindo, the founder of Springs of Life Zimbabwe, a sex worker-led organization, described the crisis as catastrophic.
Currently, we are facing a challenge accessing condoms. Supplies are limited, so as sex workers, we are opting to use newborn baby socks. You fold them, insert them, and they prevent fluids and sperm from reaching the cervix,” said Musindo.
She added that once the socks are damp, they are removed, washed, and reused the following day. In some areas like Komboni Yatsva in Epworth, sex workers reportedly pick up socks discarded by mothers carrying babies.
“Sex workers are also struggling to access healthcare services. Given the current economy, sometimes we go home empty-handed because business is bad. Even when someone contracts an STI, many choose to ignore it and continue working just to earn a living,” Musindo added.
Efforts have been made to engage the National AIDS Council (NAC) and other stakeholders to address the crisis, but challenges persist.
Dr. Bernard Madzima, CEO of the NAC, refuted claims of condom shortages, stating, “As far as I am concerned, there is no shortage of condoms in Zimbabwe. We have enough stocks in the country. The current discussion is focused on condom funding post-2025. For now, there are adequate supplies in the public sector.”
However, stakeholders have raised concerns about the future. Major donors, including the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Global Fund, have notified the Zimbabwean government that they will terminate funding for condom programs by 2026.
Farai Machinga, head of the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council pledged support for affected communities.
“We still have buffer stocks of condoms and sufficient supplies for users. It’s critical to understand the specific areas and the factors causing these unmet needs. We are prepared to ensure availability and accessibility for the affected groups,” said Machinga.
Public sector condoms, primarily funded by PEPFAR, dominate Zimbabwe’s market, accounting for 77% of condom usage. Social marketing brands cover 22%, while private sector condoms make up just 1%, according to Ministry of Health data. This imbalance poses a challenge as donor support diminishes.
