Sex workers’ advocacy groups say decriminalising sex work can contribute to a reduction in HIV transmission. The groups say the move would make access to ARVs and healthcare services more accessible.

Sex workers and stakeholders are meeting at a national conference in Ballito, north of Durban. They are being updated on the Sex Work Draft Bill that looks to decriminalise the trade. The bill is currently under consideration.

Kholi Buthelezi is from the Sisonke Advocacy Group, “Our government took the risk to decriminalise marijuana, same sex marriages and abortion then why not sex workers. It’s not right. This bill will change the lives of many. They equally need access to healthcare, they have rights. It needs to be passed.”

Women’s Month | The ongoing struggle of sex workers in SA