Nairobi Woman Representative has vowed to introduce a motion in Parliament aimed at exempting donated condoms from taxation by the government.
This initiative comes in response to concerns raised by civil society groups regarding the adverse effects of taxing condoms, which has reportedly led to shortages in the country and hindered efforts to combat HIV/AIDS.
The imposition of taxes on donated condoms has prompted some donors to withdraw their support and redirect their resources to neighboring countries.
Speaking during International Condoms Day on Tuesday, Passaris stated her intention to mobilize Parliament as it resumes its sessions this week to ensure that condoms are zero-rated.
She emphasized that while the government seeks revenue to fund its development programs, it is unreasonable to impose taxes on donated condoms.
Passaris underscored the critical role that condoms play in saving lives, preventing unwanted pregnancies, and reducing the transmission of STDs and HIV.
“I am committed to advocating for the removal of taxes on donated condoms entering the country. If condoms are provided free of charge, then we must ensure that they are not taxed,” Passaris affirmed.
“As a government, while we strive to generate revenue to support various services, we cannot afford to tax essential items that are vital for our health and well-being,” she added.
According to Samuel Kinyanjui, the country director of AIDS Healthcare Foundation Kenya, Kenya is facing a significant shortage of condoms, with the current supply of 150 million per year falling far short of the required 450 million.
Kinyanjui attributed this shortfall to government taxes imposed on donated condoms, which has deterred potential donors from contributing to the cause.
“Donors are reluctant to provide free condoms, transport them to the country at no cost, and finance their distribution, only for the government to impose taxes on them,” Kinyanjui lamented.
Ruth Laibon-Masha, the CEO of the National Syndemic Disease Control Council, emphasized the importance of condom use in combating HIV/AIDS and reducing the prevalence of STDs and unplanned pregnancies.
She highlighted the need to destigmatize condom use and promote its widespread adoption as a preventive measure.
“We have the potential to ensure that every sexually active individual has access to condoms and chooses to use them,” Masha asserted.
International Condom Day, celebrated on February 13, serves as a reminder of the importance of condoms in preventing the transmission of HIV, sexually transmitted infections, and unplanned pregnancies.
