The office of the mayor of Addis Ababa said on Thursday that a draft law which aims to ban begging and solicitation of sex in the street is being finalised.
The aims of the bans are to eliminate such social problems which create a bad image for Ethiopia, according to the press secretary for the Addis Ababa mayor’s office, Feven Teshome.
Authorities in Addis Ababa estimate that there are more than 50,000 beggars and more than 10,000 street prostitutes in the capital.
“Some of these beggars can earn up to 7,000 birr (nearly $240) and similarly those engaged in street prostitution can earn incomes that are far higher than ordinary salaries,” Teshome said.
With the potential ban only targeting solicitation of sex in the street, it means establishments such as bars, massage parlours, guesthouses, etc, where sex work may be prevalent, will not be affected.
Teshome added that sex workers and their clients would face time in prison or fines as penalties for contravening the ban, while those who give beggars money would also be targeted.
The authorities, however, are aware that due to the lucrative nature of both activities, stamping them out completely may not be easy.
Authorities are expected to hold further talks on the proposed law with religious and community leaders before voting on it.
The proposed bans are the latest in a series of measures geared towards improving Ethiopia’s image. In July, authorities in Addis Ababa banned most motorbikes in a bid to reduce crime.
The announcement was made following reports that motorbikes, which became popular as a means of evading traffic jams, were used by thugs to rob residents.
In May, Ethiopian authorities banned alcohol advertising and smoking in public places.
