Swaziland has the highest HIV prevalence of any country in the world, with more than one-quarter of the adult population infected. Although large-scale HIV prevention efforts have resulted in a decline in incidence since 1998, risky sexual behavior and insufficient condom use continue to drive the epidemic. Male condoms are a key component of Swaziland’s HIV prevention strategy, and because condoms offer dual protection against both HIV and unplanned pregnancy, they also play an important role in meeting the need for family planning. 

South Africa has the greatest number of people living with HIV in the world, with an estimated 16.9% of the adult population infected. Although large-scale HIV prevention efforts have resulted in a decrease in new infections, risky sexual behavior and insufficient levels of condom use continue to drive the HIV epidemic. Male condoms are a vital part of South Africa’s HIV prevention strategy, and because condoms offer dual protection against both HIV and unplanned pregnancy, they also play an important role in meeting the need for family planning. 

In Mali, the use and availability of male condoms is essential to preventing unplanned pregnancy and the spread of diseases such as HIV. Male condoms are an important part of Mali’s national strategy for HIV prevention, and the dual protection offered by condoms is a key component of reproductive health programs, especially for youth who may not ordinarily seek medical advice or other contraceptive methods before becoming sexually active. 

The prevalence of HIV in Lesotho is among the highest in the world, with almost one-quarter of the adult population infected. Although large-scale HIV prevention efforts have resulted in a 16% decrease in new infections, risky sexual behavior and insufficient levels of condom use continue to drive the HIV epidemic. Male condoms are a vital part of Lesotho’s HIV prevention strategy, and because condoms offer dual protection against both HIV and unplanned pregnancy, they also play an important role in meeting the need for family planning. 

In the HIV/AIDS epidemic,gender – defined as the array of societal beliefs,norms, customs and practices that define ‘masculine’ and ‘feminine’ attributes andbehaviours – plays an integral role in determining an individual’s vulnerability to infection, his or her ability to access care, support or treatment, and the ability to cope when infected or affected.