OSHAKATI – Some of the sex workers on popular WhatsApp groups that came to light recently are graduates who said they have little choice but to sell their bodies as they simply cannot find work.

Soin Thomas (not her real name) said she will only stop doing sex work if she gets a better job.

She said WhatApp groups make it easier for them to meet their clients. Most people on those groups are serious, and the business is doing well.

“What must we do? We are told to come up with our own jobs. We did,” stressed Thomas.

“I started doing sex work when I was at university. I found myself in a situation that led me to start selling myself undercover. I needed extra income, and I figured it could be something I could do.

After graduating, and searching for a job for five years, I realised it was better to join prostitution. It was a huge deal for me, but that was the only way I could satisfy my needs,” a graduate narrated.

She said some benefits of being a prostitute are that they can set their own limits and rules.

“I know people who do sex work in person. I know people who do sex work undercover to make ends meet. There are so many different components of sex work that people don’t acknowledge, while judging us,” she added.

Sex workers who use WhatsApp to connect with clients said it is the easiest and fastest way to get customers than standing on the street. It is also safer, they claim.

Namibian Police chief Joseph Shikongo said not having a job does not mean you should sell yourself. “You are risking your life. I cannot confirm if the WhatsApp groups are real, I have not received any report yet,” he said.

He said if what is alleged is true, it is not right that young ladies are putting their lives at risk.

Shikongo indicated although prostitution is illegal in Namibia, there is no law prohibiting sex workers to do whatever they are doing with their bodies.

Oshana police commissioner Naftal Lungameni Sakaria indicated that he only read about the prostitution on social media, but has no idea if it is also happening in Oshana.

“It is very sad that it has reached the point of using social media platforms. Young ladies should protect their integrity,” he said.

He further said they better stop and come up with alternatives to make ends meet.

Some sex workers in Oshakati ask N$300 for a sleep-over, and as little as N$150 or N$100 for a round. Others charge extra for sex without a condom.-vkaapanda@nepc.com.na