Transactional aspects of sexual relations in Francistown, Botswana

Abstract

This article considers the role of economic dependence of women on men in explaining the high level of the spread of HIV in Southern Africa. By means of a quantitative survey, the extent of a transactional element in sexual relations in Francistown is examined. Aspects of transactional sex are further explored by qualitative interviews. The data shows that most women in non-formal relationships receive substantial monetary support from their partner. However, this is as true for women in households above the poverty line as for women in households below the line. Transactional sexual relations cannot therefore solely be looked upon as a survival strategy employed by poor women. Rather, the transactional element is a normal part of such relations. This seems to be one of several explanatory factors for not using condoms.

Keywords:

• Botswana
• gender
• HIV

Acknowledgements

I wish to thank Jan Hesselberg, Asbjørn Aase, and also Susan Craddock and one anonymous referee for their helpful comments during the preparation of this paper. I am also grateful to Kate Fewins and Ida-Eline Engh for improving the language.

Notes

The survey interviews were conducted by Christine Wiik and the author. All in-depth interviews were held by the author.

All names are fictional.