Sex workers yesterday demonstrated in Nairobi as they marked the international day to end violence against prostitutes. The Kenyan sex workers under the umbrella body Kenya Sex Workers Alliance (KESWA) condemn the Ugandan anti Homo sexual and lesbians bill terming the bill as infringement to human rights.
They asked the government
to decriminalise sex work saying it is a form of labour and should be recognised. They demanded access to health care and their rights to be protected.
The protesters said no action has been taken over the killing of four sex workers in Thika two weeks ago. Doughtie Ogutu, the regional coordinator of the African Sex workers Alliance accused the police of using unnecessary force to arrest and abuse sex workers while in custody.
Ogutu said sex workers should be protected because they are citizens and require state protection. She
urged sex workers to ensure that they are registered as voters ahead of the March 4, 2013 general election.
"Sex workers are not criminals and continuous harassment against them is unconstitutional and inhumane" she said. KESWA coordinator John Mathenge said sex workers are committed to reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS.
Mathenge urged the sex workers whom he also referred to as an important part of the community to make use of what they earn so as to save up for the future.
