By Koketso Maraba​
The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) wishes to assure the public that free male and female condoms continue to be readily available at various locations including universities, clinics, taverns, hostels, hospitals, motels, brothels, workplaces, primary distribution sites, and key population hot spots areas. These facilities receive regular condom supplies based on their storage capacity, with deliveries occurring daily, weekly, or monthly.
Ms Maeshela Maheya from the HIV/AIDS, STI, and TB (HAST) unit at the GDoH pointed that the department aims to promote sexual health equity and eliminate barriers to condom use by making condoms accessible through health clinics, community centers, educational institutions, and outreach programs. 
Non-Profit Organisations also play a vital role in the distribution of condoms to the community and have since prioritised key population hotspots to ensure that sex workers, people injecting drugs, and men having sex with men have access to condoms. Additionally, ward-based primary health outreach teams distribute condoms during their door-to-door visits on a daily basis.
"The active distribution of condoms is a critical component of public health strategies. It promotes sexual health, prevents STIs and unintended pregnancies, and empowers individuals to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive well-being," said Maheya. 
During the State of the Province Address (SOPA) debate, Health and Wellness MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko highlighted the GDoH's efforts to educate students on critical topics such as teenage pregnancy, family planning methods, suicide prevention, sexual behavior, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This helps equip the youth with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their sexual health.
In response to the recent increase in STI infections in the province, the GDoH has intensified efforts to emphasise the importance of condom use through public awareness campaigns. The public health team continues to conduct media interviews, share educational graphics on social media platforms, and organise educational programs at schools and community centers. These initiatives target both young people and adults, highlighting the significance of safe sex practices. 
Through the Township, Informal Settlements and Hostel (TISH) outreach program, the department has increased the availability condoms to ensure that communities can access free males and females condoms in their neighborhood. Facilities or institutions who would like to receive the supply of free condoms for distributions, can contact Maeshela Maheya on 0833776186 or Sboniso Bhanyana on 0676903292.