Mozambican Prison Exposed for Inmate Prostitution

A women’s prison in Maputo, Mozambique has come under the spotlight following reports of inmates being forced into prostitution.

According to the anti-corruption organisation, the Centre for Public Integrity (CIP), inmates of the Ndlavela Women’s Penitentiary are being taken to nearby guest houses to work as prostitutes for wealthy clients.

This operation – which has been going on for at least a decade – sees the prison guards negotiating with these clients over the day, the place of the meeting, and the price, which often runs into hundreds of euros.

The inmates are then forced go out three or four times a week, regardless of time or day, to have sexual relations with strangers.

Speaking to undercover reporters recently, current and former inmates revealed that if they refused to comply, then the guards would punish them with beatings or hard labour. One prisoner admitted to having suicidal thoughts after having relations “with more than three strangers a day.”

The CIP is calling for an independent commission of inquiry – which includes the public prosecutor’s office, members of parliament, and human rights organisations – to be set up and look into their findings.

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