How salons, massage parlours escalate STDs in Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam. A hidden and dangerous trend is emerging within the Tanzanian beauty and wellness industry.

A cross-section survey conducted by us 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 28-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. It’s difficult to refuse because I need the money to survive.”

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. It’s not something we want to do, but it’s a matter of survival.”

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.”

Catherine Christian pointed out the danger involved, saying, “It’s risky because we don’t always know the health status of our clients. But when you’re desperate for money, safety sometimes takes a backseat.”

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.”

The situation is similarly dire for salon workers. Nyamisi Kiramba, a 25-year-old hairdresser in Temeke, revealed, “I earn very little from my regular job. When clients offer extra money for sexual services, it’s hard to say no because I need the extra cash.”

Damian Mboja, a barber in Masaki, shared his perspective, “It’s not just women who face this. As a male worker, I’ve had female clients make propositions. The money is tempting, especially when you have bills to pay.”

Cleopatra Peter, a hairdresser in Kigamboni, confessed, “We are constantly under financial strain. Many of us are single mothers or sole breadwinners. The extra money from these services helps us get by, but it’s not something we’re proud of.”

Salima Kabula, another salon worker, described the environment: “Clients often ask for these services in private rooms meant for massages or hair treatments. It’s a secret world within the salon.”

Zaina Ibrahim, a hairdresser in Sinza, emphasized the external pressures, “Clients can be very persuasive and persistent. When you’re in a tight spot financially, their offers become hard to refuse.”

On the other side of the coin are the clients who engage in these risky behaviors. Some clients admit to initiating these encounters, driven by the allure of convenience and discretion.

Joachim Mmati, a frequent visitor to massage centers, admitted, “I know it’s wrong, but the temptation is there. The workers need money, and it’s easy to take advantage of that.”

Mwanaheri Shabani, a regular salon client, shared her experience, “I’ve been propositioned by workers multiple times. They ask subtly at first, and if you show interest, they become more direct. It’s uncomfortable because I go there for regular services, not for this.”

Peter Sebastian, another client, reflected on the situation, “There’s a mutual understanding that exists in these places. Both parties know the unspoken rules, but it’s a dangerous game we’re playing.”

Laura Majuto, who frequents a popular salon, noted, “It’s alarming how common this is. You go for a simple haircut or massage, and you end up being propositioned. It’s a hidden side of the industry that not many talk about.”

James Msiba, another client of massage centers, added, “These encounters usually happen behind closed doors, in rooms meant for privacy. It’s a well-kept secret, but the risks involved are significant.”

Commenting on this, the director of the research initiative organization, Mr. Michael Mhando, said the transactional nature of these encounters often means that safe sex practices are neglected, leading to a higher risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

“When salon and massage workers engage in these activities without adequate protection, they not only put themselves at risk but also their regular clients and partners,” he said.

He continued: “The informal nature of these transactions makes it difficult to regulate and monitor. It’s a public health issue that requires urgent attention. We need targeted interventions to address the root causes, which include economic vulnerability and lack of awareness about safe sex practices.”

However, the Acting Executive Director of the Tanzania Commission for Aids (TACAIDS), Dr Jerome Kamwela, emphasized, “They are required to provide appropriate services in compliance with the laws and terms of their licenses. The sex trade is prohibited under our national laws. I advise citizens to avoid putting themselves at risk of contracting HIV by engaging in these unofficial services.”