Project Lead(s): Pamela Lutta
Unwanted pregnancies among single college women 15-19 years old is increasing in Eldoret, in western Kenya, leading to unsafe abortions and other health problems. Only 36.2 percent of women and 52.9 percent of men aged 20 to 24 report condom use despite nationwide efforts to increase HIV awareness, widespread male condom distribution, and common fears of unplanned pregnancy. Girls have little control over and inadequate power to demand condom use during sex, or are shy about purchasing, obtaining and using condoms.
Led by Predon Company, a marketing and communications agency in Kenya, the “Icebreaker” project will promote female condom use and HIV awareness, bundling the product and information into beauty care packages in salons frequented by young females near colleges. Through female condoms, women and girls will be empowered to protect themselves from unwanted pregnancy and HIV infection.