Seithati Motsoeneng
THE AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has commemorated World Condom Day through a series of activities aimed at promoting safer sexual practices and raising awareness about the importance of condom use in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies.
In the lead-up to the main event, AHF conducted condom awareness campaigns at several bus stop areas around Maseru. The outreach targeted commuters and young people, focusing on the role of condoms in protecting sexual and reproductive health. The campaigns included the distribution of free condoms and the display of informative posters encouraging safer sex practices.
The main highlight of the commemoration will be a carnival scheduled for 13 February 2026 (tomorrow), starting at Maseru’s Main Circle and ending at Makoanyane Square, where the central event will take place. The carnival is expected to attract large crowds and will feature music, dance, educational stalls and interactive sessions designed to engage the public while dispelling myths and misconceptions surrounding condom use.
Speaking at the event held over the weekend in Maseru, Dr Tilo Namane of the District Health Management Team (DHMT) underscored the significance of World Condom Day.
“World Condom Day is an important reminder of the role condoms play in preventing the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. They are also crucial in preventing unplanned pregnancies, particularly among teenagers,” Dr Namane said.
He urged members of the public to make use of the information and resources provided during the campaign to make informed decisions about their sexual health.
UNFPA Senior Counsellor, ‘Malintle Mosenene, highlighted the persistent challenges Lesotho faces in curbing new HIV infections and teenage pregnancies. She noted that the country’s high teenage pregnancy rate reflects continued neglect of condom use among young people.
“The persistently high number of new HIV infections is partly due to inconsistent condom use. We must continue educating young people about safe sex to prevent many unwanted and life-altering consequences,” Ms Mosenene said.
She also stressed the importance of comprehensive sexuality education at community level, saying it can play a critical role in reducing risky behaviour among both adolescents and adults.
Through these joint efforts, government and its partners hope the ongoing awareness campaigns will increase condom use and contribute to a reduction in HIV infections and teenage pregnancies. The commemoration also serves as a call to action for individuals to take responsibility for their sexual health and protect themselves and their partners.
