Sex work in Kenya: Senator says sex work is work and pledges support for sex workers
Say yes to sex workers
Sex workers in Kenya have a reason to smile after a governor aspirant pledge to support their hustle once elected.
Meru gubernatorial candidate Mithika Linturi has pledged to support commercial sex workers by providing them with an enabling environment for their trade.
Speaking on Wednesday evening while addressing more than 200 sex workers at a Meru hotel, Mr. Linturi, who was accompanied by his running mate Linda Kiome said sex work is work and commercial sex work is a key indicator of a thriving economy.
Mr Linturi also pledged to ensure commercial sex workers access free drugs and condoms to protect themselves in their trade.
“We will have an adequate supply of drugs, condoms and vaccines in our hospitals. Never again will our hospitals run out of drugs and condoms. We will also ensure you access vaccines needed to protect yourselves against STIs and cervical cancer,” he said, Daily Nation reported.
Also Read: Kenya’s Deputy President, William Ruto, to give Sh1m to sex workers
The governor aspirant said if elected, his administration will come up with legislation and policy measures to address the social and health challenges faced by the sex workers.
According to the Meru County health department there are 31,601 people living with HIV in Meru County, with the majority being the youth.
The Meru gubernatorial candidate further claimed that commercial sex workers in Meru County and country at large have been badly hit in the last four years due to capital flight as well as Covid-19.
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