Windhoek flags contraceptive shortages

Namibia’s Ministry of Health and Social Services has advised females to abstain from sex or use condoms because state facilities across the country have run out of contraceptives. This includes stocks of the pill to prevent unwanted pregnancies. The Namibian reports that health director Ben Nangombe has confirmed the shortages due to the Covid-19 pandemic. ‘We are facing a situation where many of the items are either in short supply or are unable to reach us on time because of the disruption in logistical arrangements,’ he said, adding that consignments have been held up at ports and factories ‘due to tight logistics’. The Namibia Planned Parenthood Association is concerned that the shortages could see a rise in teenage pregnancies. Its community outreach coordinator Risto Mushongo said the closure of schools and recreational centres for social gatherings could see youths engaging in sexual activities ‘to pass time’. The UN Population Fund last week said global lockdowns could see 47m women losing access to contraception.

Full report in The Namibian