The UN gave 150,000 condoms to the national army to prevent new HIV infections and keep the force healthy.
UNFPA, the United Nation Population Fund Interim Representative Bannet Ndyanabangi explained to CRN that his agency distributed health kits containing 150,000 condoms to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases among SPLA ranks.He said UNFPA worked with health organizations like Intra Health to train the SPLA on prevention and management of sexually transmitted diseases.
Dr Ndyanabangi explained that his agency also provides condoms to the general public.
He said HIV prevalence in South Sudan is relatively low compared to neighbouring countries.
Dr Ndyanabangi added that about three percent of South Sudan’s population is infected with HIV and in the army it is four percent.
Dr Ndyanabangi said the distribution of condoms was to prevent new infections and to keep the army more efficient and healthy to preserve security and peace in South Sudan.