At EPaD, we are dedicated to advancing the rights and dignity of sex workers in Malawi. We believe that sex work is formal work, and we strive to create an environment where sex workers are respected, protected, and empowered. Our efforts focus on advocacy, community support, and providing referrals to essential health services.
EPaD connects sex workers to vital health services, ensuring they receive the care they need while maintaining their dignity and safety. Our referral services include:
We partner with trusted healthcare providers who offer free and confidential HIV testing and counselling services. Our staff helps sex workers access these services without fear of stigma or discrimination.
We refer sex workers to clinics and hospitals where they can access Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) as part of HIV prevention and treatment strategies.
EPaD facilitates access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, including STI testing and treatment, family planning, and safe abortion services were legal.
In addition to health referrals, EPaD provides a range of support services aimed at improving the overall well-being of sex workers:
Our trained counsellors provide individual and group counselling sessions to address the mental health challenges that sex workers may face, such as stigma, trauma, and anxiety.
We work closely with a network of healthcare providers who are trained to offer sex worker-friendly services. We refer sex workers to these providers for comprehensive care, including STI treatment, reproductive health services, and more.
EPaD offers legal assistance to sex workers facing discrimination, violence, or legal challenges. Our legal team provides advice, representation, and support to ensure that sex workers' rights are upheld.
EPaD operates safe spaces where sex workers can access services in a secure and non-judgmental environment. These spaces also serve as community hubs for peer support and networking.
Our outreach teams work directly with sex workers in the community, providing on-the-spot services, building trust, and raising awareness about EPaD's programs. Outreach activities include:
Facilitating access to healthcare services by connecting sex workers with mobile clinics operated by our partner organizations.
Using community radio, social media, and street theatre to spread messages about HIV prevention, sex workers' rights, and the availability of referral services.
Training sex workers to become peer educators, who then provide education and support to their colleagues in the community.
EPAD believes in empowering sex workers through education and skills development. Our capacity-building programs include:
Educating sex workers about their legal rights and how to advocate for themselves in their communities and with authorities.
Helping sex workers build financial independence by teaching them how to manage their money, save, and start small businesses.
Providing training on personal safety and self-defence techniques to protect against violence and exploitation.