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Masvingo Correspondent
The Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC) has raised alarm over the rampant abuse of aphrodisiacs in Masvingo and warned of potential health implications of the use of untested sexual enhancement herbs.

ZNFPC Masvingo provincial manager Mr Peter Vhoko yesterday said the use of untested herbs, particularly by males, could provoke serious diseases such as renal failure.

He decried the widespread use of aphrodisiacs, partly fuelled by the proliferation of traders of sexual enhancement drugs in the city.

Mr Vhoko said there were serious health risks associated with using untested herbs to enhance sexual performance.

“We encourage the public to refrain from using herbs that have not been scientifically proven by medical practitioners,” he said. “Liver, kidney failure and a myriad of other deadly diseases can be triggered by the use of these untested substances to improve sexual performance.”

Mr Vhoko said the abuse of aphrodisiacs was more rampant in polygamous relationships, according to studies.

“We are happy as ZNFPC that in Masvingo a considerable number of apostolic sects are now warming up to modern family planning methods and sexual reproductive health education,” he said. “However, we still have a challenge with some of them who strongly believe in myths instead of modern reproductive health.

“Recently, some apostolic sect leaders invited the ZNFPC in Zaka district, where we educated congregants on the importance of family planning. The response was just overwhelming.”

ZNFPC has 54 Community-based Distributors (CbDs) whose role is to distribute family planning products across the province.

“Our vision is to provide quality integrated family planning services for all by 2020,” said Mr Vhoko. “But then, we have since discovered that the use of untested herbs to boost sexual strength could lead to high mortality in Masvingo.

“These untested herbs can damage human organs. It is, therefore, our wish to send a strong message to our people that they should first seek professional medical advice from doctors before buying any brand of aphrodisiac.”