Yes, assist sex workers
What you need to know:
- Sex work is one of the most dangerous occupations in the world. It is also the most difficult to eradicate, which is why it is known as the oldest profession.
- Though some people may argue that taking such steps will amount to legitimising the trade, in the long run, it may prove to be cheaper to have a disease-free body of men and women who can be productive in other ways.
Very few people, except religious zealots, would begrudge commercial sex workers help to keep HIV/Aids at bay.
According to press reports, the government intends to allocate Sh4 billion every year for prophylactics that will stop the spread of Aids to their clients.
Although the details are scanty, and some of the recommendations – like giving money to sex workers to stay off the streets – not feasible, the whole intention is noble.
Sex work is one of the most dangerous occupations in the world. It is also the most difficult to eradicate, which is why it is known as the oldest profession.
Men will always buy sex from women, or increasingly these days, from other men, whether you criminalise it or not. So why not make it safer for both the prostitutes and their clients?
Though some people may argue that taking such steps will amount to legitimising the trade, in the long run, it may prove to be cheaper to have a disease-free body of men and women who can be productive in other ways.
If nothing is done, it is obvious that eventually, the cost of providing healthcare through drugs like antiretrovirals may turn out to be very prohibitive.
