The Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) has announced plans to install condom vending machines across the country to make access easier, private, and free from stigma as part of renewed efforts to curb rising HIV infections.
The initiative follows growing concern over a steady decline in condom use, particularly among young people, despite continuous awareness campaigns on safe sex and reproductive health.
Speaking at the launch of the 2025 World AIDS Day in Accra, the Director-General of the Commission, Dr Khamacelle Prosper Akanbong, said the vending machines would be placed at youth-friendly and high-traffic locations, including sports stadia, lorry stations, bars, and nightclubs.
He said stigma remained a major barrier to condom use.
“People still face judgment when they walk into pharmacies to buy condoms. That alone discourages many young people,” he noted.
“The vending machines will allow them to access condoms discreetly and without fear of being judged.”
Dr Akanbong said the machines would also deliver short educational messages on HIV prevention and safe sex practices. He explained that a similar initiative was implemented years ago but was discontinued after the machines broke down.
“We started it some time ago, but the machines broke down. This time, we are bringing in innovative and durable ones that are interactive. As you pick your condoms, you receive messages about prevention options like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP),” he said.
The proposal, he indicated, is currently before the National Security Secretariat for review and clearance ahead of deployment.
Recent data show that 15,290 new HIV infections were recorded in 2024, with young people accounting for most of the cases. Ghana currently has over 334,000 people living with HIV, but only 60 per cent are aware of their status.
Dr Akanbong said embarrassment, limited access, and social stigma continue to discourage many from purchasing or carrying condoms — a situation the Commission hopes to address through the vending machine initiative.
The initiative is part of a comprehensive review of the National Condom and Lubricant Use Strategy.
It aims to explore innovative, youth-centered methods to promote safe sexual practices and enhance HIV prevention efforts.
This year’s World AIDS Day will be observed under the theme: “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response.”
The Commission hopes that the reintroduction of the vending machines will not only expand access but also change public attitudes, normalise safe sex, and empower young people to make informed health choices.