Ghana’s Ministry of Health has launched a National Condom and Lubricant Strategy as part of a broader effort to strengthen sexual and reproductive health services, reduce new HIV infections, and prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The new strategy aims to make condoms and safe lubricants more accessible, acceptable and effectively distributed across the country.
Health officials say the strategy responds to ongoing public health challenges, including high rates of unprotected sex, continued transmission of HIV and other STIs, and gaps in access to prevention commodities among young people, vulnerable populations and key groups. The policy outlines plans to ensure that condoms and lubricants are available at health facilities, community outlets and other public access points without barriers.
According to the Ministry, increasing awareness about proper condom use, reducing stigma around obtaining condoms and ensuring that both male and female condoms are widely available are central priorities. The strategy also emphasises promoting water-based lubricants, which can help reduce friction and injury during sex and support safer sexual practice when used correctly with condoms.
Officials cited data showing that although condoms are a proven prevention tool, misconceptions and cultural discomfort often limit their consistent use. To address this, the strategy includes education campaigns, training for health workers and community-level engagement to support informed decision making about protection and risk reduction.
The new approach also aligns with Ghana’s commitments to international health targets, including the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets meant to reduce new HIV infections and expand access to prevention and treatment services. By integrating condom promotion into broader sexual health programming, policymakers hope to make progress toward these goals and improve outcomes for affected communities.
Part of the strategy involves partnerships with local organisations, civil society groups and youth networks to widen outreach and ensure that condoms and lubricants are available where they are needed most. This includes distribution in correctional facilities, markets, schools and workplaces, with the aim of expanding equitable access to prevention products.
The Ministry of Health emphasised that the strategy is not only about increasing supply, but also about normalising condom use and encouraging open dialogue about sexual health. Officials acknowledged that tackling stigmas and cultural barriers will require sustained effort and community involvement.
Healthcare providers have welcomed the strategy, noting that it could help reduce preventable infections and support broader sexual health education. They stressed that combining quality commodities with proper information and counselling can lead to more informed and safer behaviour among sexually active individuals.
