Growing concern in Zimbabwe as sex workers turn to baby socks amid critical condom shortage
Sex workers in Zimbabwe are resorting to unconventional and makeshift methods to protect themselves during their work, including using baby socks as substitutes for condoms, due to a severe shortage of the latter in several communities.
Despite the government’s denial of a nationwide condom shortage, communities such as Epworth, Mutare, Masvingo, Harare, and Seke are facing significant supply issues, according to HealthTimes.
Sex workers say the crisis is the result of delayed restocking by health facilities, hoarding by some workers, and alleged misappropriation of supplies by healthcare workers.
Precious Musindo, the founder of Springs of Life Zimbabwe, a s3x worker-led organization, described the situation as dire, explaining how workers have been forced to use baby socks as makeshift female condoms. “Currently, we are facing a challenge accessing condoms. Supplies are limited, so as s3x workers, we are opting to use newborn baby socks. You fold them, insert them, and they prevent fluids and sperm from reaching the cervix,” Musindo told HealthTimes.
The makeshift solution, however, comes with significant health risks. Once the socks become damp, workers reportedly wash and reuse them. In areas like Komboni Yatsva in Epworth, some workers have resorted to collecting discarded baby socks from mothers.
The ongoing shortage is exacerbating the health challenges faced by sex workers. Many workers, struggling financially, are increasingly ignoring sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to the lack of access to healthcare services. “Sex workers are also struggling to access healthcare services. Given the current economy, sometimes we go home empty-handed because business is bad. Even when someone contracts an STI, many choose to ignore it and continue working just to earn a living,” Musindo added.
The shortage of condoms and the unsafe practices arising from it are raising alarm among health experts, who warn that the situation is worsening both health outcomes and the safety of sex workers.
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