The study identified locations in Uganda and Sudan where the sex trade is increasing. The two sites studied in southern Sudan are Juba and Nimule, the Monitor reports. According to study consultant Alan Ferguson, commercial sex work is well-established on the Kampala-Juba highway.
There are about sex workers at each of the studied locations, Ferguson said, adding that the majority of workers migrate between the two countries depending on where they can earn more money. Those involved in the areas' commercial sex trade include bar and hotel attendants, children from child-headed families, women widowed by conflicts and teachers, the Monitor reports. According to the Monitor , sex workers come to the border route as new job and trade opportunities become available, and the flow of human and truck traffic on the highway increases.
Namulondo said low condom use along the route is disconcerting, adding that there are reports of Ugandan girls involved in the sex trade in Sudan being prohibited from using condoms. Ferguson said that the majority of people who pay for sex are truck drivers. The study also identified police officers, fuel dealers, health workers, soldiers, teachers and business representatives as some of the people who buy sex along the route.
The study found that Namirembe Bitamazire, Uganda's minister of Education and Sports, said that she was not aware that sex work among teachers has become an issue. Wednesday, Apr 30 This is part of the KHN Morning Briefing, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations.
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