:: Chishango Condoms

Chishango means 'shield' in Chichewa.

Product Description

When used correctly and consistently, latex condoms are highly effective in preventing transmission of HIV, as well as reducing the risk of other sexually transmitted diseases and unplanned pregnancies. Chishango condoms are sold in packs of three, from dispensers that contain 12 packs each. Detailed pictorial directions for correct usage accompany each pack. A three-pack of Chishango retails for MK7.00 (US$0.06).

Primary Target

Sexually active modern young men aged 14-25 who love life and are caring enough to protect themselves and their partners from unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS.

History

• First launched in September 1994 with a wide target (all sexually active Malawians)
• First full year sales were 4.7 million condoms, exceeding the target of 1 million
• Sales reached of 7.1 million in 1998 before plateauing in 2001.
• Relaunched in May 2002 to increase condom use among Malawian males age 14-25 and to arrest and reverse the declining sales of the old Chishango
• Sales in 2003 reached a peak of over 8.4 million condoms

  Future

• Chishango will continue to play a major role in HIV/AIDS prevention, alongside other prevention strategies being actively promoted by the Malawi Government.
• Innovative communications programmes focusing on promoting condom effectiveness and improving personal risk perception among the target population are part of the strategy for PSI/Malawi's HIV/AIDS prevention campaign moving forward.
• Both branded messages promoting Chishango and generic HIV/AIDS communications will be given the necessary attention. To find out more about HIV and AIDS in Malawi click here.