Condom Prices Soar in Zimbabwe Amid U.S. HIV Funding Cuts

Zimbabwe is facing a public health crisis as condom prices surge following the suspension of U.S. funding for HIV prevention programs. A survey by iHarare reveals that the most affordable brand, Protector Plus, now costs nearly $1.50 per pack, while Fantasy and Carex brands are priced at $3.20 and $3.30, respectively—a sharp increase from 2023 prices. The price hike follows the withdrawal of USAID funding, which previously covered 98% of condom procurement and distribution in Zimbabwe. Advocacy groups are calling for the removal of VAT and import duties to ease costs, warning that the crisis could worsen HIV and STI transmission rates.