Residents decry surge in sex work in Bulawayo CBD

Residents of Ward 1 in Bulawayo's Central Business District (CBD) are sounding the alarm over the increasing presence of sex workers between 8th and 9th Avenue and along Lobengula Street, expressing concerns about the impact on community safety and social well-being.

During daylight hours, the area is predominantly populated by individuals working legitimate jobs. However, as night falls, the streets and alleyways transform into a hotspot for open solicitation, causing unease among residents who feel their safety is at risk.

This change in the district's atmosphere has left many feeling vulnerable, especially after dark. Some residents, particularly parents, are alarmed by the exposure of children to explicit language and provocative behaviour. There are fears that such exposure may negatively influence young people, leading to the adoption of inappropriate language and normalising certain actions that could harm their social development.

Speaking to CITE Youth Hub, a Ward 1 resident, identified only as MaMpofu, expressed her concern as a mother. "As a mother, it's heartbreaking to see sex workers lingering around our residential area, exposing my children to a world they're not ready for. It's not just about morality; it's about safeguarding their innocence and ensuring they grow up in a safe and healthy environment," she said.

MaMpofu also added that some local lodges in the area have become known spots for sex work, further tarnishing the reputation of the community and affecting its sense of safety.

A college student, who resides in a flat in the CBD, shared similar concerns, saying they no longer feel safe venturing out after 6 p.m. due to being mistaken for a sex worker. "This open solicitation must end,” they said, emphasizing the growing sense of fear that affects many residents.

Additionally, some community members have raised alarms about the age of some of the sex workers in the area. They warn that the involvement of younger individuals in the trade could increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV transmission within the community, further exacerbating public health concerns.

In response to these issues, residents are taking action by organizing community meetings and forums to discuss potential solutions and strategies for tackling the growing problem. Local leaders and concerned citizens hope to address these issues collectively, ensuring the safety and well-being of the entire CBD community.

As the situation continues to evolve, many residents are calling for stricter enforcement of laws to regulate solicitation and ensure that public spaces remain safe for all, particularly for families and young people. The community is united in its desire to restore a sense of safety and decency to their area and provide a better environment for future generations.