Brunette Tshuma
The Strengthening Institutions and Youth Agency (SIYA) conference, held on September 26 in Bulawayo, brought together young minds to discuss Zimbabwe’s accountability narratives.
Hosted by Transparency International Zimbabwe (TIZ) and the Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development (ZIMCODD), the event focused on combating corruption, with discussions divided into three segments: the 2025 national budget strategy, National Development (NDS1), and Gender and Sextortion.
The focus of this story will be on sextortion.
What is Sextortion?
The term is derives from he word extortion, but and is defined as an act from any person who intentionally exerts illegitimate pressure on another person with the purpose of extracting an advantage, whether for himself/herself, thus Sextortion is the use of sex as for an advantage/ bribery according to (Criminal Law and Codification and Reform Act section 134).
“Sextortion is a pervasive form of corruption that exploits vulnerability,” emphasized a TIZ representative.
“It’s crucial we address this issue to create a safer, more equitable society.”
Understanding Sextortion
Sextortion, defined under the Criminal Law and Codification and Reform Act section 134, involves using sex as a form of bribery or advantage. In Zimbabwe, sextortion has become a primary means of non-monetary bribes, particularly in the informal sector.
Alarmingly, cases involving women have skyrocketed, with 57% forced to offer sexual favors for opportunities, 45% receiving requests, and 15% offering sex for employment, according to Transparency International Zimbabwe statistics.
Where Does Sextortion Occur?
Sextortion often takes place in:
- Education Institutions: Students are coerced into intimate relationships with lecturers for grades or favors.
- Workplaces: Employees are pressured into sexual relationships with employers or colleagues.
Driving Factors of Sextortion
Key factors contributing to sextortion include:
- Gender Inequality: Women hold only 28.2% of positions of power globally, according to UN women records.
- Poverty: Desperate families may use daughters for financial gain.
- Unemployment Rate: Job seekers may resort to sextortion out of desperation, especially in Zimbabwe were its affecting College and University Students. It has been widely reported that female students are offering sex to rich men as a means of survival.
Combating Sextortion
While eradication may be challenging, implementing policies and practices can help reduce sextortion rates:
- Establish clear communication and boundaries between employers and employees.
- Report any sextortion attempts.
- Foster a culture of transparency and accountability.
As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with corruption, conferences like SIYA play a vital role in raising awareness and promoting change. By addressing sextortion and its root causes, Zimbabwe can move towards a more just and equitable society.
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