While Eswatini celebrates an encouraging surge in PrEP uptake, a parallel concern is emerging: The significant rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to the decrease in condom use, particularly among the youth. In response, the AHF Eswatini Wellness Clinic has stepped up efforts to counter this troubling trend through expand¬ed services and targeted outreach initiatives.

According to data presented by Minister for Health, Mduduzi Matsebula, PrEP initiation rose by 187 per cent from 4 310 in April–June 2024 to 12 362 by April–June 2025; a remarkable achievement in the national HIV pre¬vention strategy. However, the same report reveals a drop in condom use and a sharp increase in STIs. Between January and June 2024 alone, STI cases rose from 6 594 to 10 068, with youth and adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) most affected.

These statistics highlight a criti¬cal gap, one that cannot be filled by medication alone. In light of these concerning figures, the AHF Eswatini Wellness Clinic; with locations in Man¬zini, Mbabane, Nhlangano and Pigg’s Peak are intensifying its sexual health programmes. These clinics offer free access to condoms, STI screening and treatment and sexual health education, with a special focus on adolescents and young women.

The clinic emphasised the impor¬tance of reviving condom use culture, especially in areas where the decline has been most prevalent. “Condoms remain one of the most effective tools in preventing both HIV and STIs. Our goal is to not only distribute condoms, but also ensure young people are empowered to use them correctly and consistently,” AHF Eswatini said.

 To further respond to the rising burden of STIs in the country, AHF Manzini Wellness Centre implemented a targeted marketing and outreach strategy to boost public awareness and increase uptake of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. The move comes against a backdrop of alarming research, which revealed a 25 per cent STI prevalence among HIV-positive females, with nearly 29 per cent of those cases being asymptomatic. Given that STIs both heighten the risk of HIV transmission and negatively impact SRH systems, the centre launched a comprehensive campaign between June and December 2024. The strategy included community outreach, educational campaigns and collaborations with local organisa¬tions, as well as deploying outreach vehicles at night to provide services to sex workers.

In addition, the centre is in the process of utilising social media platforms, shared educational materials through social networks and erected billboards in high-traffic areas to draw attention to available services. A quantitative review of the campaign’s impact showed improved attendance and engagement with STI and SRH consultations, highlighting the value of accessible, targeted health communication.

The clinic has also continued its ‘Condom Nation Tour’, working in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders. At recent community events, tens of thousands of condoms were distributed, accom¬panied by live peer education sessions and free HIV testing. For instance, during the Buhleni outreach event, over 37 000 male condoms and 158 female condoms were given out, with 124 people tested for HIV on the day.

In Mbabane alone, more than 44 000 male condoms and nearly 1 000 female condoms were handed out, alongside live performances and peer education all driving home the message that safe sex can be informed, fun and accessible.

This is about more than just handing out condoms. It’s about de-stigmatising them, teaching correct and consistent use and making them as routine as reaching for soap. Education matters: Youth-led campaigns like ‘Safer is Sexy’ have targeted attitudes, addressed misconceptions and created space for honest conversations about sexual health among peers.

As the country continues to make gains in HIV prevention, stakeholders agree that the battle is far from over. Together, AHF Eswatini’s clinic services, mobile outreach, youth engagement and strategic partnerships are bridging the prevention gap. With condom use dropping and STIs rising, efforts by clinics like AHF are critical in restoring balance and ensuring that prevention remains a multifaceted approach, not just pill-based, but people-focused.

The AHF Eswatini Country Office and Lamvelase Clinic Centre of Excellence in Manzini – A central hub for free HIV care, STI screening, condom distribution and sexual health services, especially for youth and women.

Youth-led advocacy in action – Volunteers from AHF Eswatini proudly display condoms during the International Condom Day celebrations, reinforcing the message: ‘Just Use It’ to prevent HIV and STIs.

Empowering through education – AHF Eswatini team members host an awareness booth filled with free resources, condoms and youth-friendly information. (Courtesy pic)

Spreading the message with a smile – AHF Eswatini’s mascot promoting safer sex during a community outreach event.