This archive report was first published on 30 August 2019.
Kenya's commercial sex workers have been dealt a significant financial blow following Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiangi's directive to close bars and social entertainment places across the country.
According to the Bar Hostess Empowerment and Support Program (BHESP), the directive, which was implemented on August 24 and 25, has resulted in an alleged loss of Ksh 50 million for the sex workers in just two days.
Speaking on Wednesday, BHESP CEO Penina Mwangi criticized the decision, stating that it deprived bars and lodgings of clients, which are a major source of income for sex workers.
Weekends are typically the best days for commercial sex workers, and with it being the end of the month, they were expecting a windfall. However, Matiangi's directive spoiled the show for them.
With over 20,000 registered sex workers in Nairobi alone, each taking home around Ksh 10,000 on a good night, the loss is significant. Many of these sex workers will struggle to meet the financial needs of their children who will be going back to school next week.
Hotels and lodging adhered to the directive, closing their doors as early as 5 pm, leaving many sex workers without a source of income.
Published on August 30, 2019.
