ABSTRACT
Objectives: Despite widespread knowledge that condoms offer protection against STIs/HIV when used correctly and consistently; many young people do not regularly use condoms; thus leading to new sexually transmitted infections; including HIV and AIDS. This study explored condom use behaviour; specifically the extent to which beliefs; self efficacy; risk perception and perceived social support act as predictors of use or non-use of condoms among sexually active young people aged 15-24 years. Methods: Data was obtained from sexually active 448 boys and 338 girls; who were selected through multistage sampling techniques. Analysis of data; which was done with EPI Info and SPSS version 12; focused on predictors of condom use or non-use. Result: Generally; there is widespread knowledge and low levels of condoms use; despite high levels of risky sexual behaviour. Although; half of boys and one third of girls report ever using condoms; a considerably lower proportion of male and female adolescents regularly use condoms. Logistic regression models show that among girls; those who perceived social support from peers and non-parental figures were more likely to use condoms while among boys; earning an income; high risk perception and self efficacy were associated with higher odds of condom use. Conclusions: Programs aiming to increase condom use among young people need to address these factors through community-based strategies