Lost Life at an Early Age: Life-threatening Consequences Faced by Children of Female Sex Workers in Rwanda

Various studies have focused on female sex workers aiming to reduce the risk of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases and educate them on behaviour change. However, limited research has been on how mothers' profession affects their children. To address this gap, this study aimed to explore the life-threatening consequences faced by children of female sex workers in Rwanda and provide recommendations for supporting these vulnerable individuals.

This cross-sectional study used a qualitative approach with a phenomenological design. We interviewed 40 children born to sex workers and 19 mothers who are sex workers from 2 provinces and City of Kigali. We used an interview guide to conduct individual in-depth interviews.

The interviewed children reported most five problems encountered by children born to female sex workers in Rwanda including (1) stigma and rejection (2) humiliation and shame (3) Being forced to have early sex by their mother's clients and or forced/sold by mothers (4) poverty and hunger (5) early sex, pregnancy, and birth. The five problems most reported by mothers as being faced by children born to female sex workers are the same as those reported by the children.

This study found that the children born to female sex workers in Rwanda face enormous life challenges/problems that put their health at risk and their future in jeopardy. We recommend that government and non-government organizations that have the mandate of child protection take appropriate measures to safeguards these vulnerable children.