Ex female Minister says it's time Zimbabwe legalises sex work

UNAIDS notes that sex workers often experience violence from the police, clients, and partners, increasing their risk of HIV transmission. The prevalence of HIV among sex workers in Zimbabwe is notably high, estimated at 42.2%. In addition to these challenges, sex workers also confront stigma and a lack of privacy from healthcare workers.

Chikwinya, speaking at an Economic Justice Women Project (EJWP) stakeholder's engagement meeting attended by informal sector workers and legislators from Goromonzi and Kadoma, urged policymakers to urgently address the issues faced by sex workers.

She emphasized the reality of sex work and advocated for its legalization to protect workers from widespread abuses. Chikwinya acknowledged the pivotal role played by sex workers in society, even contributing to the preservation of marriages.

Goromonzi West legislator Beatrice Nyamupinga supported the call for legalization, highlighting it as the only solution to problems associated with the secrecy surrounding the sex industry. Nyamupinga emphasized that the reluctance to recognize and address this sector causes significant issues.

Margaret Mutsamvi, the executive director of EJWP, also used the occasion to lobby lawmakers to earnestly tackle the challenges faced by women in the informal sector. The plea is for a serious debate on the legalization of sex work and a comprehensive approach to addressing the issues affecting women in the informal economy.