Uganda has today joined the world in commemorating International Condom Day 2026, with major events held in Fort Portal City and Masaka District, reinforcing the national call for safer sexual health practices ahead of Valentine’s Day. The commemoration, organized by AHF Uganda Cares in partnership with Uganda’s Ministry of Health and Obukama Bwa Tooro, attracted community members for a day of awareness activities aimed at preventing HIV, sexually transmitted infections, and unplanned pregnancies.

The Fort Portal City event featured a city walk that drew participation from health advocates, community leaders, and members of the public. Residents also accessed free HIV testing and counselling services, alongside condom distribution and sexual health awareness messages encouraging responsible decision-making. Health workers used the opportunity to remind the public that International Condom Day is not simply a symbolic celebration, but a practical public health intervention designed to reduce new HIV infections and improve awareness of preventive measures.

Speaking during the commemoration, Dr. Kazoora Wilson, representing the Country Program Director of AHF Uganda Cares, emphasized the importance of strengthening Uganda’s condom supply and distribution systems. He highlighted that a strong Condom Unit is critical to ensuring condom availability, accountability, and reliability nationwide. According to the message delivered at the event, an efficient condom program strengthens access to prevention tools and supports broader national HIV prevention goals.

Organizers noted that the International Condom Day campaign was not limited to Fort Portal. Similar activities were held at Namirembe Landing Site in Masaka District, where communities accessed essential sexual health services to support informed decision-making. The outreach in Masaka included free HIV testing and counselling, STI screening and management, and condom distribution. Health officials said the services were aimed at reaching communities that may face barriers to accessing routine sexual and reproductive health care.

As part of side event activities, the community also turned up for HIV testing and counselling at Muchwa Grounds, reflecting growing public willingness to access prevention services. Public health experts continue to stress that regular HIV testing, early STI treatment, and correct condom use remain among the most effective approaches to reducing transmission rates.

International Condom Day is globally marked on February 13, a day before Valentine’s Day, to remind individuals and couples to prioritize safety, responsibility, and informed sexual choices. In Uganda, the 2026 commemoration serves as a reminder that prevention remains a key pillar in the fight against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Organizers encouraged the public to take advantage of free testing services, seek accurate health information, and use protection consistently as part of building healthier communities.