Our Executive Director, Mr. Aniz Mitha, recently attended a pivotal session convened by UNDP We Belong Africa, themed “From Dreams to Reality: Achieving the Global 10-10 HIV Targets with and for Key Populations.” This significant event brought together experts and advocates to discuss strategies for meeting global HIV targets and addressing the needs of key populations.
Mr. Mitha passionately emphasized the urgent need to decriminalize sex work in Southern Africa. He highlighted that decriminalization is a crucial step toward ending inequalities against sex workers, particularly those affected by HIV. Currently, in Malawi HIV prevalence among men and women has decreased to 8.8%, but prevalence among sex workers and men who have sex with men is still high at 62% and 21% respectively. By removing the legal barriers that stigmatize and marginalize sex workers, we can foster an environment that supports their health, safety, and human rights.
Decriminalizing sex work not only addresses the immediate needs of sex workers but also plays a vital role in the broader fight against HIV. It enables sex workers to access healthcare services without fear of discrimination or legal repercussions, ultimately contributing to the global effort to achieve the 10-10 targets.
We stand with Mr. Mitha in advocating for these necessary changes, recognizing that the fight against HIV is intertwined with the fight for human rights and equality. Let us work together to transform these dreams into reality and create a world where everyone, regardless of their profession or identity, can thrive.
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