Sexual Vulnerability Among Internally Displaced Woman in Northern Mozambique: Livelihood Options and Intervention Opportunities to Break the HIV/AIDS Chain

This talk examines the prevalence of sexual harassment of and predation upon female street food vendors and other internally displaced women in Northern Mozambique. As a result of economic marginalization, women engaged in the informal sector of the economy are subject to additional risks and hazards then some of those engaged in the wage labor system, including sexual predation and HIV infection. This talk examines the social construction of working zones, the economic forces, and cultural practices that put these women at greater risk. Issues such as migration status, length of time in the area, and the need to engage in resource scavenging contribute to women’s vulnerability. Findings demonstrate that internally displaced women’s vulnerability is amenable to policy intervention that could reduce risks associated with street food vending and reduce the need to for women to engage in more risky livelihood options, such as prostitution or engaging “patrocinadores” (“sugar daddies”).  This talk provides suggestions for policy makers.