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Fishermen in Entebbe fishing communities have voiced their worries over a shortage of condoms, citing concerns about the potential risks to their health and safety. The shortage, they say, is primarily attributed to sex workers who collect condoms from health centers and other public locations and resell them at inflated prices.
Mr. Robert Mukisa, a fisherman at Kigungu landing site, highlighted the challenges faced by fishermen due to the unavailability of condoms. Speaking during a Women’s Day outreach event at the landing site on Friday, March 8, 2024, Mukisa expressed frustration over the difficulty in accessing condoms, which are essential for practicing safe sex.
According to Mukisa, sex workers frequently acquire condoms from health centers and public places, leaving insufficient supplies for fishermen who rely on them for protection. These condoms are then sold by sex workers at prices ranging from Shs5,000 to Shs10,000, making them unaffordable for many fishermen.
“The scarcity of condoms poses a significant risk to our health and safety,” Mukisa emphasized. “It is costly to purchase condoms from sex workers, especially considering the already high expenses we incur. This situation not only puts our lives at risk but also undermines our ability to engage in safe sexual practices.”
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The distribution of condoms by organizations such as Family Medical Point (FMP) is crucial for promoting sexual health and preventing the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among vulnerable populations, including fishermen. However, the effectiveness of these efforts is undermined when condoms are diverted and sold for profit rather than being used for their intended purpose.
Efforts to address the condom shortage and combat the exploitation by sex workers are essential for safeguarding the health and well being of fishermen and the wider community. Strategies may include increasing the availability of condoms through targeted distribution programs, enhancing enforcement measures to prevent the unauthorized sale of condoms, and raising awareness about the importance of safe sex practices.
The concerns raised by fishermen underscore the urgent need for action to address the underlying issues contributing to the condom shortage. By working collaboratively with local authorities, healthcare providers, and community organizations, it is possible to ensure that condoms remain accessible and affordable for all individuals, thereby promoting sexual health and reducing the risk of STIs.
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