Sex workers in Zimbabwe have been forced to adopt unconventional methods for contraception due to a severe shortage of condoms in several communities.
Reports indicate that these individuals are now using baby socks as makeshift contraceptives, highlighting the dire situation they face.
The shortage has significantly impacted areas such as Epworth, Mutare, Masvingo, Harare, and Seke. Despite government assurances that there is no nationwide shortage, many localities are experiencing critical supply issues. Precious Musindo, founder of Springs of Life Zimbabwe, a sex worker-led organization, described the situation as "dire," explaining that workers are folding and inserting baby socks to prevent fluids and sperm from reaching the cervix.
Musindo further elaborated on the challenges faced by sex workers, stating, "Currently, we are facing a challenge accessing condoms.
Supplies are limited, so as sex workers, we are opting to use newborn baby socks."
The reuse of these socks after washing them adds another layer of health risk, exacerbating the already precarious conditions under which these workers operate.
The shortage is attributed to a combination of factors, including delayed restocking by health facilities, hoarding by some sex workers, and alleged misappropriation of supplies by healthcare workers.
This has led to increased health risks, with some sex workers ignoring sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to financial constraints. Dr. Bernard Madzima, CEO of the National AIDS Council (NAC), refuted claims of a nationwide shortage, asserting, "As far as I am concerned, there is no shortage of condoms in Zimbabwe. We have enough stocks in the country."
However, concerns about future supplies remain, as major donors like the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Global Fund plan to terminate funding for condom programs by 2026.
Farai Machinga, head of the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council, has pledged support for affected communities, but the immediate crisis remains unresolved.
As the situation unfolds, the plight of sex workers in Zimbabwe continues to draw attention to the broader issues of health access and economic vulnerability in the region.
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