By Violet Auma.
On the eve of Valentine’s Day, Jane Oduro, a university student found herself caught in the whirlwind of celebration with her friends in Kisumu.
It was a night of laughter, music, and indulgence. Among the revelers was her then-university sweetheart.
The night blurred with shots of liquor, dancing, and moments of carefree passion. Eventually, they booked a room.
What started as a night of fun turned into a decision she would regret for the rest of her life, they had unprotected sex.
Weeks later, the consequences came crashing down. Jane was pregnant. A routine test at the hospital revealed an even harsher reality, she had contracted HIV. A single night of reckless abandon had changed her future forever.
Today is World Condom Day, observed on February 13, strategically placed just before Valentine’s Day to promote safe sex practices, HIV/AIDS awareness, and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It serves as a crucial reminder that while love is worth celebrating, responsibility must accompany it.
In Kenya, HIV remains a significant public health concern, especially among young people.
According to the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC), around 32,000 new HIV infections occur annually, with four new infections happening every hour.
Adolescents and young adults account for a worrying percentage of these cases, often due to low condom use, lack of awareness, and stigma surrounding sexual health discussions.
Despite condoms being one of the most effective methods of preventing HIV and STIs, their use is still shrouded in stigma.
Many young people struggle with buying condoms not because of the price but due to the fear of judgment.
Some drive long distances just to avoid familiar faces at local shops. Others, like Jane and her partner that night, choose to risk it all rather than face the discomfort of purchasing protection.
Jane’s story is not unique. Across Kenya, countless young people face unplanned pregnancies, STIs, and HIV infections due to lack of protection.
According to health experts, condom use is still alarmingly low, especially among young adults and teenagers.
Misinformation, misconceptions about reduced pleasure, and peer pressure contribute to the problem.
As Kenya joins the world in marking World Condom Day 2025, global organizations like WHO, UNAIDS, and NSDCC are urging people to re-engage, re-invigorate, and re-educate about condoms not just as a barrier, but as a cost-effective tool for safer, healthier, and more confident sexual experiences.
The “King of Condoms” campaign continues to debunk myths about condoms, proving that they do not reduce pleasure when used correctly.
HIV conversations should not feel outdated. Despite medical advancements, the youth remain disproportionately affected.
Many avoid testing due to fear, stigma, or ignorance, allowing the virus to spread undetected.
This World Condom Day, let’s break the silence, educate openly, and take collective action to prevent more cases like Jane’s.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, let’s celebrate not just love, but responsible love. Make the right choice use protection, get tested, and stay informed.
