Harare’s Expanding Sex Work Industry Amid Service Disruptions: A Public Health Time Bomb for Zimbabwe

By Michael Gwarisa In 2024, Theresa*, a 23-year-old from Chitungwiza, turned to sex work not by choice, but out of necessity. Zimbabwe’s faltering economy had left few opportunities for young women like her. What began as a means to survive quickly became a dangerous gamble with her health and safety. “At times, I risk and have unprotected sex,” she admits. “You either agree to it or you lose the client. The market is flooded now, and it’s survival of the fittest.” When she entered the industry, Theresa did not anticipate…

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