The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) is extremely concerned about the exploitation and abuse of child sex workers in Beaufort West. SAHRC research on economic and social rights in the area revealed that sex work in Beaufort West resembles an ‘organized social system’ that has become woven into the fabric of these poverty stricken communities as their means of survival. The Commission is advocating for an integrated and holistic community based approach to tackle the deep-rooted challenges faced by this municipality.

 

The SAHRC conducted a field study in Beaufort West Local Municipality from 12 –14 April 2005 as part of its constitutionally mandated monitoring of economic and social rights. The research focused on the challenges facing the local municipality as well as projects that represent ‘best practice’ to address the problems.

 

The core findings of the research are:

§         Beaufort West can be described as an isolated town that has not broken away from the shackles of South Africa’s apartheid past, and economic and social integration is severely limited.

§         The combination of the geographical location of the town, the low level of literacy and limited employment opportunities translates into an economic and social system in which there is very little room for upward mobility and, as a result, poverty and deprivation are rife.

§         The nature of sex work resembles an ‘organised social system’ that has become woven into the fabric of these poverty stricken communities as their means of survival.

§         Beaufort West has a significant mobile client base because of passing truckers and, when coupled with acute deprivation and poverty, this creates fertile ground for the exploitation of sex workers, in particular, underage sex workers.

§         Although there is some progress in respect of women’s empowerment and youth development, such programs require intervention in a more holistic and integrated manner.

§         One of the youth development projects identified during the research, namely, New Life Projects, represents a beacon of hope. It is a good example of ‘best practice’.

 

While the initiative of the Department of Social Services and Poverty Alleviation (DSSPA) in launching a Youth and Development Programme for the Central Karoo District is acknowledged, the SAHRC recommends the following:

§         An integrated and holistic community based approach to tackle the deep-rooted challenges facing Beaufort West. The SAHRC therefore proposes that the DSSPA and the municipality work closely with New Life Projects, as its philosophy and approach to community development have assisted children in desperate circumstances.

§         The strengthening and expansion of the existing multi-sectoral committee, to comprise of representatives from SAPS, DSSPA, health, justice, the trucking industry and community forums, in order to generate workable solutions and to commit themselves to an integrated strategy specific to the needs of Beaufort West.

§         Proper monitoring and enforcement of the activities of the truck stop and truckers as per the initial resolution of the existing multi-sectoral Committee.

 

For further information contact:

Mr Phethuvuyo Gagai

HOD Research and Documentation

South African Human Rights Commission

Tel: 011 4848 300 ext 2204/2240