Zoey to promote condom use

Raunchy dancer Zoey Noleen Sifelani is set to partner Population Services International (PSI) in a programme to promote condom use.

The programme, she said, is in a bid to reduce the rate of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV in the country.

"There is a lot of promiscuity in the country and this happens were we normally work. So, it makes sense to start the campaign there. We are going to be distributing condoms. That is the only way now to reduce the spread of infections, at least for now," said Zoey.

Dance groups have become popular in the country with Zoey and her rival, Beverly Sibanda, taking the lead in the industry. Promiscuous behaviour has also been linked with club life where dancing groups mostly perform and Zoey admits they have been unfairly blamed for making the situation worse. She admitted that their fans can't see the difference between them and prostitutes.

"There is always a tense relationship between dancers and those other women in sex work. Those in that industry think we are there to compete with them while observers and fans can't differentiate us. It is certainly not like. But the fact that we are in the thick of things and understand what is really happening, it gives us that opportunity to promote safe sex," she said.

Zoey employs a group of 12 girls and boys who are earning a living from dancing. her group is undoubtedly one of the best groups in the country with a busy schedule throughout the week.

"It is quite viable and we find it more lucrative when we travel to places like Victoria Falls and mining towns. I have a group made up of both male and female members. We include guys because there are some dance styles that purely need guys and this I hope shows that we are entertainers and not there to show off our bodies to men and ladies for hidden agendas," she said.

Asked to highlight one development in her life that has come as a result of dancing, Zoey said:

"I bought my FIRST residential stand and I'm really proud of it."