Tainted Identities, Masculinities, and Sex Work: A Qualitative Study of Male Sex Workers and Key Informants in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Abstract

Introduction: Despite historical knowledge of "sugar mummies" who purchase sex from young men, there remains a significant gap in research on male sex workers in Zimbabwe. This study suggests that sociology and anthropology can offer valuable insights into this discursive space.

Methods: This research aimed to understand the factors influencing knowledge production on male sex work and the perceptions and manifestations of masculinity among male sex workers and key informants working with male sex work programs in Harare, Zimbabwe. Theoretical frameworks such as Connell's (1987) hegemonic masculinity, Goffman's (1963) ideas on stigma, and Foucault's (1980) concepts of knowledge, power, regimes of truth, and discourse are adopted to illuminate this study.

Results: The findings indicate that Multiple factors contribute to the seeming academic silence on male sex work, including various forms of stigma, funding limitations, the discrete nature of male sex work, and the cultural and legal fabric. These issues are compounded by patriarchy, where such knowledge is seen as destabilising and, thus, marginalised. Existing research on male sex work is largely sensationalised and conducted by traditional and social media. The absence of literature means that stakeholders, researchers, and the general population fail to understand the diversity of people selling sex and address their specific needs of the same.

Conclusion: Future research on male sex work in Zimbabwe should explore emerging issues such as mental health, HIV, economic needs and legality.