Beyond Taboos: Exploring Perceptions of Commercial Sex Work in Rural Zimbabwe

This study examined community perceptions of commercial sex work in Bhuka, a rural settlement in Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe, where rural sex work remains underexplored despite persistent stigma, criminalization, and moral regulation. Guided by Foucault's theory of the social construction of sexuality, we used an interpretive qualitative design to explore how power relations, cultural discourses, and social norms shape attitudes toward sex work. Data were collected through 12 in-depth interviews with sex workers (n = 6) and key informants, including village heads, nurses, and youth leaders (n = 6), as well as three focus group discussions with community members (n = 22). Data were thematically analyzed using NVivo. Findings revealed that sex work largely occurs in informal spaces and primarily serves miners, and local men. Community members commonly framed sex work as immoral, deviant, and disruptive to social order, reinforcing stigma and social exclusion. Sex workers highlighted economic hardship, unemployment, and limited livelihood opportunities as major drivers of involvement. Moral, religious, and gendered norms further intensified discrimination and restricted access to healthcare and social support. Public health concerns, safety fears, and community reputation also shaped negative perceptions. We recommend rights-based interventions integrating community education, harm reduction, gender-responsive economic empowerment and sustainable development goals.