Residents of Bulawayo’s Ward 1 are raising concerns about the increasing visibility of s*x workers in the Central Business District (CBD), particularly between 8th and 9th Avenue and along Lobengula Street.
As evening approaches, these areas, typically bustling with daytime commerce, transform into hubs of open solicitation, leading to heightened feelings of insecurity among local inhabitants.
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The presence of s*x workers, often engaging in explicit conversations and wearing revealing attire, has prompted worries about the potential negative influence on the community’s youth. There is a prevailing fear that such exposure may lead children to adopt inappropriate language or behaviors, thereby impacting their social development.
A resident, identified as MaMpofu, expressed her distress over the situation, stating:
‘Our Children Are at Risk’: Bulawayo Community Speaks Out on S*x Work Surge
“As a mother, it’s heartbreaking to see s*x workers lingering around our residential area, exposing my children to a world they’re not ready for. It’s not just about morality; it’s about safeguarding their innocence and ensuring they grow up in a safe and healthy environment.”
Additionally, some local lodges have reportedly become hotspots for sex work, further tarnishing the community’s reputation. A college student residing in a CBD flat shared similar sentiments, noting a sense of unease after 6 p.m., as they are often mistaken for s*x workers.
The community is also alarmed by the apparent young age of some individuals involved in s*x work, fearing this could lead to a surge in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV within the area. Residents are calling for increased law enforcement presence and community initiatives to address these pressing issues and restore a sense of safety and dignity to their neighborhood.
