Unlock this story — it’s free
The Eastern Cape Department of Health rolled out a large-scale Condom Distribution Drive in Motherwell on 14 November 2025. The outreach targeted residents, commuters and local businesses in Sub-District A, Gqeberha. The initiative forms part of the province’s push to strengthen HIV prevention ahead of World AIDS Day on 1 December.
What Happened
The Nelson Mandela District Health Promotion team led the drive at Motherwell Shopping Centre, taxi ranks and surrounding taverns.
Teams aimed to bring health services closer to the community while encouraging safer sexual behaviour.
During the outreach, officials distributed 156 000 male condoms, 1 000 female condoms and 3 000 lubricants.
The focus group included shoppers, taxi drivers, commuters and patrons at local entertainment spots.
Health officials stressed that many people often prioritise work, social activities and personal responsibilities over their wellbeing. They reminded residents that when health declines, every other part of life is affected, making prevention and early care essential.
Official Response
The Department of Health said the fight against AIDS remains a societal responsibility and requires consistent community involvement.
“We cannot afford to place health last. When we protect our wellbeing, everything else becomes possible,” the team shared during the engagement.
The province confirmed that it is fully aligned with national efforts to curb HIV, STIs and TB. This drive supports the ongoing 1.1 Million ART Close the Gap Campaign and the 5 Million End TB Campaign.
Community Impact
The distribution drive is expected to strengthen prevention efforts in one of Gqeberha’s busiest areas.
By increasing access to condoms and information, the province aims to reduce new infections and improve community awareness as the world prepares to mark World AIDS Day on 1 December.
