Sex industry and Experiences of Female Sex Workers in Ngundu, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Commercial sex work (CSW) has turned out to be a subject of concern in most societies. CSW occurs in most countries of the world, and has existed since ancient times. Different nations have different viewpoints with regards to prostitution. In some nations it is illegal while in others it is legal. Prostitution is regarded as a social problem that offends culture, societal morals and values and leads to the spread of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). In most studies about sex work, male counterparts receive little attention but they play a role in the industry. In light of the profiled background context of the problem, this study explored the experiences of female sex workers (FSWs) at Ngundu Growth Point in Zimbabwe. This study endeavored to examine the circumstances that drive women into CSW and the impact of prostitution on the wellbeing of FSWs. The study further examined the role played by government, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and health professionals towards service delivery to CSWs. In order to understand the experiences of sex worker intersectionality and feminist standpoint theories were deployed. A case study approach involving Ngundu growth point in Masvingo was utilized. The choice of Ngundu emanated from the fact that it is located along the highway that connects South Africa with Zimbabwe, Zambia and Democratic Republic of Congo and as a result, it experiences varying prostitution encounters. Methodologically, the study followed a qualitative research path involving the use of open-ended interviews as data collection methods. A total of nine participants were interviewed that includes sex workers as well as the key informants. Data analysis was done using thematic analysis. The overall study finding was that prostitution at Ngundu is proliferating due to economic hardships where most people are unemployed and living in poverty. From the field interviews with those involved in the prostitution business, it emerged that the socioeconomic situation in the country is forcing women to be in the sex industry. The recommendation proffered is that is that the government should create employment opportunities for the people, open vocational training centres and there should be awareness campaigns targeting sex workers.