Factors Influencing Self-identification of Female Sex Workers in Korogocho Slum in Nairobi County

Abstract

One of the key influencers of FSWs accessing HIV prevention services is acceptance and self-identification as sex workers. Prior to self-identification, many FSWs have limited contact with their peers and the health system and are thus exposed to HIV in the course of their sexual activities. The main objective of the study was to explore the factors influencing self-identification of female sex workers in Korogocho Slum in Nairobi County. The study specifically sought to explore the social factors that influence self-identification of female sex workers in Korogocho slum, Nairobi County, Kenya, and the influence of sexual dynamics on self-identification of female sex workers in Korogocho slum, Nairobi County, Kenya. The study was conducted at the Sex Workers Outreach Program (SWOP) clinic based in Korogocho area of Nairobi, Kenya. The study used a cross-sectional research design. The study utilized a sample of 38 respondents selected through purposive sampling technique out of which 32 respondents participated in 4 focus group discussions. In addition, 2 peer educators and 2 health service providers participated as key informants and provided more insights into the subject matter. The study findings showed that majority of the sex workers were led into sex work because of peer pressure, poverty, quick money generated from sex work, looking for start-up money for their businesses and lack of education. The study further found that sex workers were generally not comfortable revealing their identity to the larger society but only to a few friends or staff at the SWOP clinic. The main factors influencing self identification was need for safety, sense of security, sense of belonging, learning from each other, to obtain financial help and to obtain medical assistance. Some of the barriers to self identification include stigmatization, discrimination, and society‟s perception on sex workers. The study recommends there is need to strengthen use of peer groups and peer educators to reach out to SWs and enable self identification; to sensitize the community on stigma and discrimination