AEGiS-15IAC: Gender and unemplyment: HIV/AIDS prevention challenges for Botswana sex-workers.

15th International AIDS Conference

Bangkok, Thailand - July 11-16, 2004

Gender and unemplyment: HIV/AIDS prevention challenges for Botswana sex-workers.

Int Conf AIDS 2004 Jul 11-16; 15:(abstract no. C10003)

Ntseane PG
University, Gaborone, Botswana

BACKGROUND: Recent empirical data in Southern Africa shows that sex work is a thriving industry in spite of lack of legislation and a hostile environment as characterized by stigma, exploitation and gender violence. Data on the relationship between sex work and HIV/AIDS also show high HIV infection rates (69 %) inspite of high (98%)knowledge, practice of condom use, and prevetion of HIV/AIDS. Based on this background, the purpose of this study was to: a) describe the situation and extent of sex-work in Tlokweng village (a suburn of Gaborone city). b) identify problems and needs of sex workers and c) facilitate a participatory exercise of identifying the focus of a relevant strategic response to the plight of sex workers in Tlokweng. Methodology: A descriptive qualitative survey that used conversational interviews, focus groups and observation was conducted. The purposeful sample included sex workers, clients and community members. Data was analysied using both descriptive statatistics and constant comparative techniques. Findings: Data analysis revealed the following major findings: Sex work is illegal, but one of the major sources of income and recreation for a significant portion of the population. Sex work activities are done under a high risk environment e.g. theft, violence, HIV infection, death, etc Sex workers are not a homogeneous group. Due to increased unemployment and low salaries there are categories and networks of sex workers. Needs of sex-workers include, employment opportunities, a safe environment, information on the dangers of HIV/AIDS.

CONCLUSIONS: The study concludes that sex-work perpetuates gender disparity and inequality hence the need to advocate for review of laws to factor HIV/AIDS. There is need to address other social problems such as hunger and unemployment because sex workers have multiple risks and HIV is not necessarily one of the pressing risk. The response strategy should be target and context specific.

Keywords: AEGIS, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Prostitution, HIV Seropositivity, HIV Infections, Safe Sex, Behavior, Botswana, Africa, Southern, Humans, prevention & control

040711
C10003