Free condoms will be available at all Pacific Games accommodation providers and venues in Samoa, but visitors are not obligated to make use of them if they do not want to.
The outgoing Minister of Health said the intention of the ministry is to make the condoms available in case athletes is in a position where it is needed for health reasons.
“Free condoms do not mean they must be used.” said Tuitama Leao Dr Talalelei Tuitama.
According to Newsline Samoa newspaper, the Ministry of Health’s message to local and overseas athletes who will be taking part in the July Pacific Games is that prevention is better than cure.
Tuitama said the Ministry’s preference for protection is for athletes to avoid sexual contact.
“ We would like to see that they do not get into situations where they would have to use condoms,” Tuitama said.
More than a 1000 boxes of condoms have been put aside for use during the Games.
These will be distributed at the Games village and other locations where athletes and officials will be accommodated in both Savaii and Upolu.
According to the Ministry of Health the condoms are primarily for protection should the need arise.
Tuitama made it clear this protection is also necessary for same gender union.
“Condoms are still distributed even if they are not used, it is important that athletes are given this protection for some may be carrying sexually transmitted diseases like HIV AIDs.”
The Games Organizing Committee estimate more than 4,500 athletes and officials will descend on Samoa for the games in July.
