Times Of Swaziland: SEX WORKERS: WE WANT TO QUIT!

SEX WORKERS: WE WANT TO QUIT!
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BY SIBUSISO ZWANE on 11/08/2017 04:22:00


MANZINI – A group of about 20 sex workers operating between the
Manzini-Matsapha corridor want out of the trade as they claim the police have
killed their business.
They are now begging for the assistance promised by Minister of Public Service
Owen Nxumalo.
Yesterday, this publication met the group of sex workers in Matsapha, who boldly
said the constant patrols by police around their business spots had killed their
trade. They said most of them, especially those who relied on customers whom
they got on the streets, were struggling of late following the patrols by the
police.
They said the situation was a bit better for those who have constant clients who
call them when they need their services and those who operate in private places,
which they, however, did not want to mention.
In fact, the group of sex workers, mainly consisting of women who are in their
mid and late 30s, said the business was now for young girls labasadla busha babo
(who were still enjoying their youthful stage).
“For us, life has completely changed because we are failing to put something
on the table for our families, especially our school-going children.”
They said they really needed help and believe that the assistance that the
minister, who doubles as Manzini South Member of Parliament (MP), promised,
could be a long lasting solution to their predicament.
It is worth noting that after a total of 30 sex workers were arrested about a
fortnight ago in Manzini, the minister volunteered to assist them by empowering
those who were willing to leave the sex trade through the Empowerment Fund,
which has about E1.5 million.
Meanwhile, the group of sex workers said following circumstances which among
other things include age, they want out of the business and have begged the
minister to assist them with the funds so they could start some businesses.
“Laba labatsi minister should back off, bayasonela.We need his help.”
They supposed their colleagues who said the minister should back off, were still
young in the business and they still had an opportunity of attracting rich
clients, who could book them into hotels or build them houses after being
pleased with their services. Again, they presumed that such people were those
who did not have responsibilities of taking care of their families and children.
“We are adults and matured, we have experienced a lot in life and we know what
we want.”