Sex workers in Checheche bemoans lack of confidentiality at St Peters hospital

Artwel Chingwara

Speaking at a focus group discussion at Checheche organised by the Platform for Youth and Community Development (PYCD) Gender desk; Sex workers complained of the publication of their health status which lead them to lose customers and even reluctant to seek medical help

“The medical staff at the local hospital (name supplied) doesn't respect our privacy and confidentiality when we go to seek medical help on sexual transmitted infections. This has made many of us not to seek urgent treatment making the infections get into serious stage" Said Chipo,who is one of the familiar and regular visitors to the PYCD Drop In centre in Checheche.

She went on to say her friend nearly died of genital watts as she feared to go to the local hospital and ended up resorting to traditional remedies which could not help.

PYCD Gender Wellness and Advocacy Officer Ms Cynthia Gwenzi urged the sex workers not to delay seeking medical attention. She went on to suggest to them to continue visiting the nearest clinics since her organisation would come to their help by engaging with the hospital staff. Despite this assurance, the sex workers complained that the treatment they were getting was inhumane in addition to the fact that the charges are expensive and unaffordable considering the little they get after providing services.

"We don't have money to seek medical help at other centres since we charge smaller amounts moreover customers are now low because of the economic situation. We beg PYCD to talk with the local hospital staff to respect patients’ privacy and confidentiality; if that is sorted we will feel free to be treated”.

Said one of the vocal participants identified only as Mai Tee.

This important discussion came at a time when PYCD has joined the international community in celebrating 16 days of activism against Gender based violence under the theme "ORANGE THE WORLD: GENDERATION EQUALITY STANDS AGAINST RAPE"

This year's theme resonates with the efforts PYCD have been making in undertaking its endeavour to empower young women and girls against harmful cultural practices.

The achievement of Goal 5 on Gender Equality by 2030 requires urgent action to eliminate the many root causes of discrimination that still curtail women’s rights in private and public spheres. Eliminating gender-based violence is a priority, given that this is one of the most pervasive human rights violations in the world today.