Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2004. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
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New Vision - December 22, 2004
Mary Karugaba and Paul Kiwuuwa
State minister for primary health care Alex Kamugisha was yesterday asked to explain why there is a shortage of condoms, especially during this festive season.
Kamugisha, who represented health minister Jim Muhwezi, was briefing the parliamentary committee on the HIV/AIDS.
Kamugisha attributed the shortage to the withdrawal of 10 million Engabu condoms from the market due to poor standards and a foul smell.
He said despite the shortage, the health ministry would provide 5.3 million condoms this week.
Kamugisha said the government could not import more condoms before buying a pre-testing machine to ascertain their quality.
He said the ministry had spent about $110,000 (over sh190m) on importing the machine. He said importing the machine would save the money spent on pre-testing from abroad.
Kamugisha cautioned the public against using Engabu, saying it was not safe until the ministry declared it so.
He said people should not rely on condoms alone but also be faithful and abstain from sex.
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