THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH is getting a major boost for its National AIDS, Gender and Family Planning programmes.

HIV/AIDS advisor for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Carmeta Douglin told a two-day workshop at Amaryllis Hotel yesterday that the organisation would provide 7 000 second generation female condoms, which would be distributed free of cost to the target populations.

"It will also ensure that every person who receives female condoms is properly informed of the benefits of its use and know how to use it correctly," Douglin stated.

She was addressing the trainers workshop, which focussed on Behaviour Change, Communication and Condom Use.

Douglin noted that sexuality and life-skills education in formal and informal settings provided information leading to improved health seeking behaviours and attitudes, which were crucial in the development of informed choices.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health Martin Cox also addressed the participants. He said condom programming was an essential part of reproductive health services for both men and women, and an integral component of a range of HIV prevention strategies. (YB)