Commercial s-x workers in Zaka District have applauded the National AIDS Council (NAC) for its continued work to reduce HIV/AIDS transmission among Key Populations (KPs). Through various programs run by NAC, commercial s-x workers received vital health education as well as supportive services from NAC aimed at mitigating transmission rates among KPs.
Anastacia Zendakwaye, Zaka District National AIDS Council Coordinator, provided an update on the efforts by Zaka District to meet the health needs of Key Populations.
Zendakwaye stressed NAC’s dedication to bettering the lives of vulnerable groups through education, health services, and advocacy programs aimed at combating HIV/AIDS as well as other related health concerns.
“Our programs aim to educate Key Populations such as commercial s-x workers, men who engage in intimate relations with men, and people who inject drugs. These initiatives give these groups access to vital healthcare services while equipping them with the knowledge necessary for protecting themselves against HIV,” Zendakwaye said.
The NAC provides free HIV testing, condom distribution, treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and peer education programs in its services.
Commercial s-x workers in the area have given great praise for these initiatives due to the beneficial effect they’ve had on both their health and well-being.
Numerous commercial s-x workers shared how NAC education and services have drastically enhanced their lives:
Thandiwe from Zaka is very grateful to have received so much knowledge regarding HIV prevention from NAC’s workshops.
She used to be unaware of how best to protect herself before being introduced to regular testing and condom usage.
Yet, she now realises its value and importance in her professional work life.
Thandiwe said, “Thanks for everything, including the lifesaving education that I received – now, with the knowledge, I feel more assured in my career.”
Farai, another commercial s_x worker, shared similar sentiments.
“NAC Outreach programs have been an amazing blessing,” she stated, noting the information received about HIV and STIs has had an immense effect on how she approaches her work; free testing services, as well as condom distribution, have helped protect her against possible risks posed by clients.
Previously, he would avoid getting tested; now, however, she regularly does it, knowing it’s essential both to his well-being and the clients’ services.
Pretty, another s-x worker from Zaka, shared how the NAC had provided relief during a particularly trying time in her life.
“There was a period when I felt very sick but wasn’t sure why, when NAC peer educators helped me understand the significance of seeking medical help early and having tests conducted,” she said.
I believe in myself that NAC is looking out for us all and giving hope for my future”.
Anastacia Zendakwaye noted that Zaka’s efforts are part of an overall national plan to reduce HIV prevalence among Key Populations.
She pointed out how commercial s-x workers, often neglected by mainstream health services, have become strong proponents of NAC programs.
“Zaka is part of our national effort to ensure no one is left behind in fighting HIV/AIDS, including commercial s-x workers who may often feel stigmatised and marginalised – through education and access to services, we have seen a remarkable shift in attitudes about health and safety from these women”, Zendakwaye said.
NAC has played an instrumental role in advocating better health practices and dispelling the stigma surrounding s-x work in Zaka. Their organisation remains engaged with commercial sex workers, men who engage in male-on-male relations, Key Populations groups, as well as any others needing special services to ensure education meets specific requirements and services are offered accordingly.
