BONELA responds to Mma Tshireletso on sex workers
Tuesday, February 03, 2015
In the night: Sex workers are constantly subjected to abuse by their customers
In the article, it is reported that Honourable Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development; Botlogile Tshireletso spoke about dangers faced by sex workers in their line of work. She is reported to have recognized and acknowledged that, sex workers are in need of safety from those that abuse them and use them without payment. Further, she recognised them as human beings in need of protection which demonstrate inclusiveness and a helping hand to another human being.
As a human rights organisation, BONELA finds it commendable that a high ranking official is conversant with issues affecting women and in particular, sex workers. BONELA applaud such public statements and emphasize that, sex workers need to be treated as human beings and be availed optimal health services and protection by the law.
Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...