Sex workers in Zimbabwe claim they have been forced to use unconventional substitutes, including newborn baby socks, as makeshift condoms due to severe shortages of contraceptives in several communities.
Despite the government’s denial of a nationwide crisis, many regions are grappling with significant supply gaps, reports HealthTimes.
Communities such as Epworth, Mutare, Masvingo, Harare, and Seke have been hit particularly hard by the shortage.
S3x workers attribute the problem to delayed restocking of health facilities, hoarding of supplies, and alleged misappropriation of condoms by healthcare workers.
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Precious Musindo, founder of Springs of Life Zimbabwe, a s3x worker-led organization, described the situation as dire, explaining how workers have turned to desperate measures.
“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 baby socks, she said, are often washed and reused after they become damp. In extreme cases, workers in areas such as Komboni Yatsva in Epworth reportedly collect discarded baby socks from mothers as an alternative.
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The crisis has compounded health risks, with many s3x workers continuing to work without proper protection. Financial constraints are forcing some to ignore sexually transmitted infections (STIs) for the sake of earning a living.
“S3x 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.
Meanwhile, Dr. Bernard Madzima, CEO of the National AIDS Council (NAC), refuted claims of a widespread condom shortage.
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“As far as I am concerned, there is no shortage of condoms in Zimbabwe. We have enough stocks in the country. The current discussion is focused on condom funding post-2025. For now, there are adequate supplies in the public sector,” Dr. Madzima said.
However, fears persist over the long-term supply of condoms. Key donors, including the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Global Fund, have notified the Zimbabwean government of their plans to terminate funding for condom programs by 2026.
This looming funding gap has raised concerns over the sustainability of condom availability in Zimbabwe.
For now, those working in Zimbabwe’s oldest profession face a stark reality—risking their health in the absence of proper protective measures.