INTERNATIONAL NGO Population Services International (PSI) has announced it will distribute approximately 250,000 condoms during the upcoming Water Festival to raise awareness and help prevent the spread of HIV.

"We have planned to give away 250,000 condoms during this year's Water Festival to people who come to enjoy the celebrations, especially the boat rowers," Sour Dina, communication and marketing manager at PSI,  said Thursday.

According to the organisation, the rate of infection is higher during the festival, with a large number of boat rowers from the provinces frequenting brothels after racing in the capital. Khoun Leakhana