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From 12 to 15 October 2021, as part of the "Programme d'Accélération vers le Contrôle de la Transmission des Epidémies de Tuberculose et du VIH" (PACTE TB/HIV) project, a supervisory team from Service Yezu Mwiza (SYM) met with peer educators (PEs) of sex workers (SWs) in the provinces of Rumonge, Makamba, Gitega.

At first glance, the visit aimed at monitoring and supervising the peer educators in the realization of the minimum service package such as awareness for HIV/STI prevention, and to discuss the difficulties they encounter in their daily lives without forgetting the possible ways out. Listening to their testimonies, it is clear that most of the SWs undergo sex work in order to survive in a world of poverty. " I have had five children whom I have to feed and clothe. I didn't get a family inheritance to do some gardening. I have missed out on where to find work. I have to do everything to survive and feed my children ", says a SW from Gitega. Considering their situation, SWs represent a vulnerable group that needs help and protection through support and training in income-generating activities that will enable them to take charge of their lives and reorient themselves to other trades.

In his exchange with the PEs, Father Laurien S.J, invited them to continue sensitising their peers to prevent HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as well as unwanted pregnancies. He insisted on the importance of micro-projects and income-generating activities such as cutting and sewing, embroidery, baking and other income-generating activities. Work together in associations and initiate mini-projects because 'unity is strength' "work to earn bread by rendering services of social interest. The hand of God is on you to support you". Some of the PEs said that they have income-generating activities such as selling food and clothing, but that they need "Umutahe": financial support. Several PEs expressed their willingness to receive training in trades in order to undertake income-generating projects, and possibly take up other more rewarding trades.