Your subscription is almost coming to an end. Your premium access has ended, but the best of Nation. Africa is still within reach. Renew now to unlock exclusive stories and in-depth features. Subscribe for a month to get full access. By Julius Maricha. Dar es Salaam. A hidden and dangerous trend is emerging within the Tanzanian beauty and wellness industry.
A cross-section survey conducted by The Citizen has revealed that salons and massage centers, generally viewed as places for relaxation and self-care, are increasingly becoming hotspots for risky sexual behavior, significantly raising the potential for HIV transmission. The urge to make extra cash to pay bills is the main catalyst for such behavior, with many admitting that they hardly make enough money to cater to their immediate needs. Speaking with different masseuses in the city, many admitted that it is a way of life with their clients, both male and female.
Lilian Adili, a year-old masseuse in Kinondoni, explained, "The salary I get from the massage parlour is hardly enough to cover my basic needs. Sometimes, clients offer me extra money for sexual favors.
Similarly, Halima Kassimu, 21, stated, "Many of us have families to support. When a client offers a significant amount of money, it becomes a means to an end. Sikitu Hashim, who has been in the business for six years, added, "The clients who request these services are usually regulars. They know we need the money, and they take advantage of our situation.
We often have no choice but to agree. Erica Joseph, who works at one of the massage centers in Masaki, noted, "Even in the more upscale places, this happens. The clients are just more discreet about it. The pressure to meet financial needs drives us to make these difficult decisions.
