The article “The reality of prostitution of young girls in the Central African Republic” raises an issue that is too often taboo in this Central African country. In fact, more and more young girls aged 12 to 16 are turning to prostitution to survive. Mostly orphans, these teenagers have lost their bearings and find themselves left to their own devices.
The article describes the sad spectacle of the streets of Bangui at night, where one can meet these young prostitutes looking for clients. They are dressed provocatively and often hang around busy kiosks and bars. One of the young girls, Achetou, talks about her journey. She lost her parents in the crisis and found herself left to fend for herself. Prostitution has become her only means of livelihood, being able to sleep with several men in a day and earning between 15,000 and 40,000 FCFA (approximately 23 to 61 euros).
This reality is unfortunately common among these young girls who are desperately seeking a place in society. But this activity also exposes them to many dangers, including sexually transmitted diseases. Gisèle, another teenager, tested positive for HIV in 2021. She recounts the mistreatment she receives from her stepfather and how she had to flee to survive.
The Soleil de Centrafrique association seeks to fight against this scourge by offering income-generating activities for these young girls. The objective is to help them escape from this environment and reintegrate into society. Epiphanie Nambozouina, coordinator of the Central African Social Marketing Association (Acams), explains that the idea is to support them in activities adapted to their abilities, such as making bags with beads, hotel management or sewing. But it is also crucial to work on changing the mentality of these young girls.
Unfortunately, prostitution of minors is considered pedophilia by Central African law, but it is difficult to prosecute clients.
This article highlights an alarming reality in the Central African Republic, where young girls find themselves trapped in prostitution, desperate to survive. It also underlines the importance of the awareness and reintegration work carried out by associations to help these young people build a better future.
In conclusion, it is urgent to break the silence around this taboo subject and to provide concrete solutions to protect these vulnerable young girls and offer them real opportunities.