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From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
The Cross River State Government in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to establish condom dispensers within Calabar, the Cross River State capital.
The first phase of the initiative, about 18 dispensing sites have been identified within the metropolis to enhance accessibility, particularly for high-risk groups and vulnerable populations.
Speaking at the inauguration of one dispenser located at the Cross River State Agency for the Control of AIDS (SACA) the Director General of the Agency, Dr. Charles Iwara, explained that this initiative is part of the State Government’s strategic plan to promote condom use as part of its goal to achieve zero HIV/AIDS infections by 2030.
Dr. Iwara noted that out of the 18 identified sites, 10 are operational, including locations such as the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Palladium, UNFPA Office, SACA Office, Marina Resort, Airport Field, Millennium Park, Atekong Junction, and General Hospital on Mary Slessor Avenue.
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In his words, “This effort is part of a larger campaign to promote safe sex practices and raise awareness about HIV prevention in the metropolitan area. “We also plan to install more dispensers throughout greater Calabar, extending from Bakassi to Akamkpa and further across the state in due course.
“In addition to the free condom distribution, we are providing sexual education, testing, and counseling at our office and encourage members of the public to utilize these services at any nearby public hospitals,” he added. He emphasized that this initiative aligns with global efforts to prevent HIV transmission and aims to reduce new infections.
By providing accessible and free condoms, the State Government and its partners he added are making significant strides in promoting public health and well being. Iwara expressed gratitude to UNFPA for donating condoms, which he believes will play a crucial role in reducing the spread of HIV.
He stressed that condoms are available free of charge for individuals aged 18 and above and encouraged the community to take advantage of these services. He also urged the targeted populations to find their nearest condom dispensary, which operates 24/7 for free, condoms.
