Leaders of sex workers in Greater Masaka have asked the government to support their economic welfare.
During their meeting with area leaders, the practitioners of the world’s oldest profession said that they have supported the ruling party, National Resistance Movement (NRM) for a long time and it is high time the party thought about supporting them with initiatives that can put money into their pockets.
Mpomo Florence, the Greater Masaka sex workers association Chairperson, said the service they provide and the challenges they face caused them to unite, but their unity needs to be supported especially as Uganda prepares to go to polls in January.
“We started this association after finding that we were being marginalized with no one showing concern for our welfare. We were 5 members but as we speak, we are more than 500,” Mpomo told Tayari
The group says they have been receiving condoms from the government but life will be better when they have more money in a SACCO.
“We have been supporting this government for a long time, and voting without any condition. But this time, we need financial support. You have been giving us condoms and as far as health is concerned, we are okay, though not so well since we still have more health issues.
The group has up to 25 million Uganda shillings in savings and they are asking the government to support them have a SACCO.
“This year, we were able to make 23 million in profits but this is little. If we had a SACCO, we would be having more money for ourselves,” noted Mpomo.
Popularly known in Masaka City as ‘Ba Neeko,’ sex workers say they are battling health threats like cancer of the cervix, which they want the government to help them overcome and continue ‘helping people find some peace and pleasure.’
Kabonero Ssegawa Katumba, the Masaka deputy Resident City Commissioner said his office is bringing the sex service providers together, saying the group has a future.
‘This government cares for everyone including those who think they are marginalized. I will make sure that these people’s welfare is improved.
Rodgers Bulegeya, the Masaka NRM Chairperson wants the group to utilise the available government programs like the Parish Development Model so that they can live better lives.
According to Network of key population service organizations limited (UNESO) 2024 report, the criminalization of sex work has entrenched a climate of fear and marginalization, forcing sex workers into precarious situations where they are vulnerable to exploitation, violence, and abuse.
The report adds that Uganda’s obligation to respect, uphold, promote, and fulfil the human rights of its citizens is embedded not only in the Constitution but also in regional and international treaties to which Uganda is a party.