By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – Members of Parliament (MPs) have called for initiatives to help women transition out of sex work and into sustainable livelihoods.
This appeal was made during an orientation session hosted by Voice Of Our Voices (VOOV), Positive Women Together in Action, and the Swaziland AIDS Support Organisation (SASO) on March 27, 2025. The discussion involved members of the Parliamentary TB Caucus.
The MPs expressed concern over the growing prevalence of organised sex work in the country and emphasized the importance of empowering women through programmes that promote economic independence and social integration.
Khubuta MP Masiphula Mamba reportedly questioned the factors behind the rise in sex work, while MP Tsembeni Magongo suggested implementing more empowerment initiatives tailored to support affected women.
Their remarks, however, drew mixed reactions from the public. Some questioned the MPs’ apparent surprise, pointing out that media reports have consistently highlighted the issue, including alleged sex work syndicates at the University of Eswatini (UNESWA).
Critics argued that MPs should already be aware of the socioeconomic drivers behind sex work—such as unemployment and poverty—and emphasized that, as legislators, they are in a position to create policies that address these root causes.
Others went further, suggesting that some MPs may even be clients of sex workers, raising concerns about the authenticity of their statements. Meanwhile, a portion of the public noted that addressing sex work requires nuanced understanding, as many sex workers fulfill emotional or companionship roles that others may not.
The dialogue underscores the need for a compassionate and comprehensive response—one that acknowledges the lived realities of women in sex work and creates sustainable opportunities to uplift them.
The MPs’ call for action presents an important opportunity to craft inclusive, long-term solutions that empower women and strengthen communities.
(Courtesy Pic)
