Growing Concern Over Public Sex Work in Lenasia Extension 6

Residents of Lenasia Extension 6, particularly along Olive Street and at the Tech Grounds, are increasingly concerned about the open nature of sex work in their community. On Saturday, 23 November 2024, a group of local residents gathered to address their growing frustrations with sex workers engaging in sexual acts in public spaces, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of the community, particularly the impact on children, property values, and public health risks.

This issue has been escalating for months, and on 22 November 2024, about 30 residents from across Lenasia convened at the Saaberie Chishty Hall in Extension 6 to discuss possible solutions. The meeting culminated in a joint effort the following day, where residents, along with former Ward 9 Councillor Imraan Moosa and current Ward 9 Councillor Yakoob "Jakes" Karolia, conducted a successful operation to curb the open sex work in the area.

In an effort to understand the underlying causes of the situation, some of the sex workers were approached for comments. Five women shared their stories, explaining that they had resorted to sex work out of financial desperation. Many of them are struggling to support their children, with no financial support from absent fathers. Some women mentioned that they had migrated from countries like Lesotho and Botswana, facing significant barriers to employment due to a lack of documentation such as passports or IDs.

Despite the desperation these women face, residents are concerned about the public nature of the sex work, with some clients paying as little as R40 and others up to R120. Additionally, the women’s physical health conditions raised further concerns, as some appeared visibly unwell.

Adding complexity to the issue is the involvement of local men, some of whom are described as prominent figures in the community. These men are reportedly engaging with sex workers, only to return to their families afterward as though nothing had occurred. This behavior has sparked moral and ethical questions regarding double standards and accountability within the community.

As tensions rise, the community is left grappling with tough questions: How can they protect children and families from being exposed to these activities? What long-term solutions can address not only the public nature of sex work but also the root causes that force women into such desperate circumstances? The situation calls for a comprehensive response that balances community safety with the urgent need for social and economic support to those who feel driven to engage in sex work.