February 13, 2025: As we commemorate International Condom Day, SAYWHAT stands committed to advocating for the sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) of students and youth in Zimbabwe. This day, celebrated globally, is a crucial reminder of the importance of condoms as a vital family planning tool in preventing unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Aligned with Zimbabwe’s FP2030 commitments, which include increasing the availability and accessibility of family planning services, particularly for young people and adolescents, SAYWHAT strives to ensure that every young person can make informed choices by addressing the unique sexual and reproductive health challenges that they face. Adolescents and young people face significant barriers in accessing SRHR services, including stigma, and lack of information. According to the National Assessment of Adolescent pregnancies in Zimbabwe published in December 2023, adolescent pregnancies are a major concern, with approximately 22% of girls aged 15-19 having begun childbearing and 2.5% of adolescents aged 15-19 living with HIV. Condoms and contraceptives, therefore, play a vital role in the SRHR landscape, particularly for adolescents and young people offering dual protection against unintended pregnancies and STIs, including HIV.

As we commemorate International Condom Day, SAYWHAT recognizes the significant progress made in promoting SRHR in Zimbabwe and the increase on the allocation to the 2025 national health budget. To secure the gains and promote adolescents and young people’s access to condoms and other family planning services there is need for more investments in public financing on family planning and effective disbursements. With adequate funding we can ensure that every individual can make informed and autonomous decisions about their sexual health and young people have the tools they need to protect themselves from unintended pregnancies and STIs.  

SAYWHAT calls upon all stakeholders, including the government, civil society organizations and the private sector, to recognize the urgent need to increase public financing for family planning in Zimbabwe. It is imperative to advocate for greater investment in family planning services to improve the availability and accessibility of condoms and other contraceptives. Let us unite in our efforts to create a future where condoms and family planning services are accessible to all, and where the health and well-being of our youth are prioritized. By doing so, we can create a sustainable and supportive environment that ensures our youth have access to the necessary information and resources to lead healthy and empowered lives.

As International Condom Day comes just a day before Valentine’s Day, SAYWHAT urges young people to take charge of their sexual and reproductive health by making responsible and informed choices. Love and intimacy should go hand in hand with protection and respect. We encourage young people to prioritize their well-being by using condoms consistently and correctly, engaging in open conversations about safe sex, and accessing SRHR services without fear or stigma. Recognizing also that it is not just about preventing unintended pregnancies and STIS, it is about empowerment, autonomy, and securing a healthy future. Let this International Condom Day be a reminder that caring for yourself and your partner is the most meaningful way to celebrate love. Spread the message and let’s create a generation that values safety, health, and empowerment.