Why do they give AIDS medication to Africa, but not condoms?

I think it's really stupid to try to help fix a problem, but not to try to combat the root of the problem. Giving theese people the medicine they need will only keep them alive a few more years, and without proper protection, they will most likely just have more time to give AIDS to more people. If more people have AIDS, the more need for vaccine. Is our government really that thickheaded?

As some have said, condoms are much more available now...but there were/are some factors keeping condom distribution from being as widespread and effective as it could be.

First is European influence. Through colonization and missionary work, the Catholic Church (please no one accuse me of anti-catholic bias, I'm just laying it out as I know it) has a strong presence. They have helped establish hospitals and clinics as part of their humanitarian work. The church has its view of condoms and birth control.

Another factor is cultural. It is simply not seen as"manly" or even "normal" to use a condom....presumably because they are a sort of modern convenience that simply doesn't have a place in their societies. Therefore, condom distribution is less than successful and not in as much demand as we might expect. Many of these poor countries don't even have "luxuries" like clean water, readily available toilet paper, or typical snack foods...so condoms seem relatively strange and unimportant, I'm sure.

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OMG I so agree with you!!!

Are you kidding? Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson would claim that some sort of racism for limiting births. You see why this country is in gridlock, and nothing can every get accomplished?

yeah the government isn't known for the smartest decisions in the world

i think they do have condoms their now. where did you hear they didnt?

Actually they do give out condoms. It's part of the whole family clinic program over there. They try every way to try and help people not get infected.

Actually Africa states are one of the largest producer of condoms in this world. Medical devices such as condoms are easier and cheaper to make thats why african states are making them in the millions vs AIDs drugs. The AIDs drugs are sent to Africa because making the drugs are very complicated and expensive.

WHO/UN tried to set up a pharmaceutical plant in africa to make such drugs but had to sell it because it was too expensive maintain.

They do give out condoms.

True. Very true. However why are we giving aids medication to Africa when there are senior citizens here in our country struggling to purchase meds! People whom have paid there taxes etc. If we are going to be charitable the charity begins at home!