Minister criticises clergy over condom stance

Health Minister Sam Ongeri on Thursday criticised religious leaders for refusing to accept the use of condoms in the fight against HIV/AIDS, the ‘East African Standard’ reported. Ongeri said the spread of the disease and its impact on the economy was a “matter of national concern” in Kenya, and that all possible means, including condoms, should be used to prevent its spread. “We are losing able citizens to the scourge and it is wise to protect our people,” he was quoted as saying. The government in July announced its intention to import 300 million condoms as a major plank of a new HIV/AIDS control campaign, under which it is hoping to reduce HIV infection among 15-25-year-olds by 30 percent in the next four years. Ongeri said the best way for Kenyans to avoid infection was through abstinence or sticking to one faithful partner but than the use of condoms could not be ruled out as an additional measure. “My church leaders have always blamed me for advocating the use of condoms, but I would like to assure them that we advocate its use as a last measure,” he said. Catholic and Muslim leaders in Kenya have opposed the use of condoms, claiming that it promotes immoral behaviour.