Online Reporter
Raymond Jaravaza
JUST when Zimbabweans thought the only thing rising was passion in the bedroom, a distant war could soon make “playing safe” a costly affair!
A simmering conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel is sending shockwaves across the globe and now threatens to hit where it hurts most… between the sheets!
Yes, you read that right. Condom prices in Zimbabwe could soon shoot up, leaving lovebirds sweating for all the wrong reasons.
Condoms, the trusted bedroom bodyguards against unwanted pregnancies and deadly infections like HIV/Aids, may soon become a luxury if global supply chains continue to choke.
The drama is playing out far away in the volatile Strait of Hormuz, a key route for shipping materials used in manufacturing condoms. In cheeky street talk, the Strait of Hormuz has even been jokingly dubbed the “route to pleasure” or gateway to the cookie jar, making its troubles feel a little too close to home. With tensions boiling over, supplies are being squeezed, and manufacturers are feeling the heat.
One of the world’s biggest producers, Karex (makers of Carex condoms), has already sounded the alarm. \The company’s boss, Goh Miah warned that prices could jump by a shocking 20 to 30 percent if the situation drags on.
“We have no choice but to transfer the costs,” he said, as the global squeeze tightens.
And Zimbabwe is not spared. The country imports millions of condoms, including the popular Protector Plus, which goes for about US$1 per pack in shops, bars and tuckshops.
But behind the scenes, the stakes are even higher.
Free condoms distributed in clubs, clinics and workplaces are a lifeline for many.
In 2023 alone, a staggering 111 million were handed out in the public sector, while another 25 million circulated through social marketing channels.
With Zimbabwe pushing hard to end HIV and Aids by 2030, any disruption could spell trouble.
Health experts warn that if prices rise and supplies shrink, risky behaviour could creep back, undoing years of progress.
So while missiles fly thousands of kilometres away, the real explosion could be felt right here at home — in bedrooms, bars and backseats.
Lovers are being warned: the war may be far… but its effects could hit very close to home!
