Student by day, prostitute at night

At the end of the day, many girls pack away their textbooks and go to work. Some work in local shops. But some are working as prostitutes. Many with older men as clients.


But why are they doing such a dangerous job?


In an article from the Chronicle, a 15-year-old girl spoke about being a sex worker. A Form 3 pupil, the girl said she hides her work by pretending to be part of a dance group. While her mother sends money from South Africa every month, the groceries she brings home are always welcomed. No one asks where they comes from.


Another girl said she moved to Bulawayo to become a domestic worker. But the job she promised was a lie. She was forced to become a sex worker to earn food and money.


Girls, making money as a sex worker may seem like an easy job. But it is never a way out of poverty. Pimps will control how much you make. And the risks to your health and safety are huge.


Being a sex workers puts you at risk of contracting an STI or HIV as well as unwanted pregnancies. It’s much harder to force a partner to wear a condom when they’re paying. Plus, older partners are more likely to have a STI.


Sex workers are also at high risk for abuse, rape and other violent attacks. This can be from a client or pimps or even the police.


Finishing school can be tough. But it will help you get a better job or even go on to study at a university or college.


If you need to find work to help your family, try another option. Ask around your neighbourhood if someone knows of somewhere where you can work a few hours. Maybe as a babysitter or cleaning in a shop. You can also ask at school if someone needs a tutor in a subject you are good at.


Girls, if someone is trying to force you into sex work, you have the right to say no. Speak to an adult you can trust or visit a Victim Friendly Unit at any police station. Too afraid to do either of these? You can call ChildLine on 119 for free for advice, counselling and support