Tema: Some commercial sex workers in Tema, who have migrated from other African countries to Ghana, have revealed that unemployment pushed them into the commercial sex trade. They explained that the difficult economic conditions in their home countries led them to migrate to Ghana in search of better opportunities, ultimately resulting in them resorting to commercial sex work to make a living.
According to Ghana News Agency, these women face numerous challenges in their line of work, including societal stigma, safety concerns, health risks, and economic instability. In an interview, some commercial workers, who requested anonymity, stated that despite the difficulties, their work has enabled them to meet their personal needs and support their families.
One Nigerian university graduate, whose name has been withheld, shared her experience of remaining unemployed for about five years in her home country. Economic hardships forced her to relocate to Ghana, where she entered the sex trade upon learning about its profitability from a friend. She highlighted issues such as societal stigma and discrimination, which affect various aspects of life, including housing and employment opportunities.
An 18-year-old sex worker, who also wished to remain anonymous, recounted being deceived into the trade and threatened with rituals if she refused to continue. She lamented the situation, having been brought to Ghana under false pretenses and now feeling trapped in the trade until she fulfills certain obligations.
Miss Chidima Akpotha, another worker, emphasized the importance of using protection to mitigate health risks and shared concerns about dealing with violent clients. Despite these challenges, the workers disclosed that the trade can be lucrative, with potential earnings equivalent to significant sums in their home countries.
They concluded by advising others against entering the trade, labeling it as an undesirable job choice.
