Sundaymail Editor
Theseus Shambare
In the face of funding suspensions that have limited access to essential healthcare, over 1 500 sex workers in Epworth have received free sexual and reproductive health (SRHR) services through a project initiated by Springs of Life Zimbabwe (SLZ).
The initiative, funded by AIDSFonds, a Dutch organisation committed to combating HIV and AIDS, aims to curb the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the area.
“Springs of Life recognises the urgent need to address the healthcare challenges faced by sex workers in Epworth, particularly in light of recent restrictions,” said SLZ advocacy officer Mitchel Munashe Zengeya.
Launched in February, the three-month project has provided antiretroviral therapy (ART) to 200 individuals, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to 50, distributed condoms to 1 000 and supplied STI medications to 150 sex workers.
SLZ is employing a multi-faceted approach, including partnering with local pharmacies through Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to ensure confidential and non-discriminatory care.
The organisation is also collaborating with three local council health facilities – Epworth Poly Clinic, Overspill Clinic and Epworth Mission Clinic – to support nurses in conducting day and night outreach programmes.
“These programmes include health education sessions, emphasising regular STI screening, adherence to ART and PrEP and HIV prevention,” Zengeya said.
“We employ a targeted outreach strategy focusing on hotspot identification with both day and night outreach teams.”
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