The rising cost of living in Malawi has hit all sectors, including the informal industry, with sex workers in Area 23, Lilongwe, increasing their rates due to economic hardships.

According to one sex worker, who chose to remain anonymous, the price for short-time services has jumped from K2,000 to K5,000 as they struggle to make ends meet.

“Business is no longer the same. During Peter Mutharika’s time, we could make over K100,000 a night, but now even reaching K50,000 is a challenge,” she said, emphasizing the financial difficulties they face.

She further revealed that, in the past, she could serve up to 30 clients in a single night, excluding daytime customers.

“We need money to pay rent, buy food, and take care of our children, so customers should understand why prices have gone up,” she added.

A survey conducted by our team also found that sex workers in Bwandiro, another hotspot in Lilongwe, have also raised their prices to as high as K15,000 due to the tough economic situation.

Malawi24