UPDF to ramp up STI fight after getting Shs2bn condom donation

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) received condoms worth Shs2 billion from Dembe Distribution Company to strengthen the fight against sexually transmitted infections and promote family planning in the Force and their surrounding communities.

Dembe delivered the Fiesta brand of condoms in four flavours to Bombo Military Hospital in Luwero.

They were delivered by the Chief Executive Officer of Dembe Distributors Anil Damari and the Condom Coordinator at the Ministry of Health (MOH) Vastah Kibirige.

They were received by Brig. Gen. Dr. Patrick Ocen, the director of HIV/AIDS in the UPDF and Maj. Evelyn Asiimwe, on behalf of the Chief Medical Services of the UPDF Maj. Gen. Ambrose Musingunzi.

Kibirige said the 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 sensitized on their correct usage and correct disposal after use. 

She added that the UPDF is a reliable partner of the MOH in this effort because the military has well organized structures. 

“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.

Anil 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 sensitization of the beneficiaries of the condoms to ensure proper usage so that the intended output is realized.

Hon. Maj Asiimwe noted the need for intensified sensitization 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. 

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