UPDF receives sh 2b condom donation

REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH

The Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF)  has received condoms worth  sh2b  to help in the fight against sexually transmitted infections and promote family planning in the Force and their surrounding communities.

The donation from Dembe Distribution Company through the Ministry of Health (MOH), was received  by Brig. Gen. Dr. Patrick Ocen,  the Director of HIV/AIDS in the UPDF and. Maj Evelyn Asiimwe.

The package was delivered earlier today at UPDF's Bombo Military Hospital in Luwero by the Chief Executive Officer of Dembe Distributors, Mr. Anil Damari and the Condom Coordinator at the Mnistry of Health Mrs. Vastah Kibirige.

"MOH and its partners are committed to ensuring that all sexually active people in Uganda are able to access good quality condoms of their choices and are sensitised on their correct usage and correct disposal after use.

The UPDF has been a good longtime partner in our strategic interventions for the triple protection against sexually transmitted infections, HIV infections and unintended pregnancies," said Kibirige, according to a release from Ministry of Defence.

She added that the UPDF is a reliable partner of the MOH in this effort because the military has well-organised structures.
Damari said the donation is in appreciation to the UPDF for its contribution in ensuring peace and security in the country that enables trade to thrive and to the people of Uganda for their support for the company.

Brig Gen Ocen reiterated UPDF's commitment in working with its partners in ensuring wellness in the country. He instructed the UPDF Directorate of HIV/AIDS and family planning units to ensure proper sensitisation of the beneficiaries of the condoms to ensure proper usage so that the intended output is realised.

Maj Asiimwe noted the need for intensified sensitisation of Ugandans against condom misuse because lately, there has been widespread misuse.

She added that in a week's time, the intended clients, both uniformed and civilians would be able to access the condoms at no cost from all the UPDF health care units across the country.

"This donation will not only be useful in the UPDF institution but also its neighboring communities that benefit from the UPDF health services," she said.

The UPDF is a people's army and all its hospitals operate within the Ministry of Health structures, hence do not close their doors to the neighbouring communities. 

Over 80% of the beneficiaries of all types of services in UPDF health care centers are civilians.