SOUTHERN PROVINCE

MUHANGA — Close to 200 former sex workers in Nyamabuye sector have vowed to play a key role in the campaign against HIV/Aids among children. They made the vow this Sunday during celebrations to mark the world Family Day at the Red Cross center.

The occasion attracted district officials, children and spouses of the former sex workers. The group operating under their association-Tubusezere Association –which means Goodbye to Poverty and Prostitution-operating in Muhanga, turned their backs on the street in 2006.

They operate under the umbrella association called Association Ihorere Munyarwanda [AIMR] an HIV/Aids association in Rwanda. Some of the ex-prostitutes lauded the AIMR officials for leading them into new life which has reportedly improved their social image and self esteem.

Devota Mukagasana, 29, said: "After a long time of suffering on the streets, I regained my social identity and esteem after joining Tubusezere Association. I have been able to lead a new life and I want my child to learn from my experience especially keeping away from the dangers of contracting HIV/Aids.”

Mukagasana, also vice chairperson of Tubusezere Association, added that life has not been easy losing two children to the Aids scourge but appreciated the fact that she is officially married and is happy to educate others on the dangers of prostitution.

The women appealed to authorities to help them leave their makeshift houses-formerly used to accommodate their ‘customers’ noting that the residents still consider them as sex workers even after abandoning the trade. They also noted that the new environment would create space to raise their children to avoid stigma.

"Some men still consider us as sex workers and it is hard to have our families understand the change in life, unless there is change in residence. All we ask for is iron sheets, because we have a lot of inherited land,” said Afisa Sinibagiwe.

Children demonstrated the social stigma through role plays and sent a serious message to parents who sexually abuse children and consequently infect them with the virus. In response, Aimable Mwananawe, the National coordinator of AIMR said that the members will be supported to get new houses with the help of the district.

He said: "The members have valid concerns and AIMR will negotiate with the district and advocate more to see them [ex-sex workers] change to a totally new environment.”

Local officials also commended the group for being open on living positively and giving life testimonies to the community. They urged them to discuss issues of sexuality with their children and take all family members for voluntary testing.

At least 1,000 people including children currently get support from AIMR in the districts of Muhanga, Ruhango, Musanze, Rubavu, Gasabo, Nyarugenge and Kicukiro. About 64 children and five of the women were enrolled in school while 16 others received sowing machines from AIMR after completing tailoring course.

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