By Kalkidan Asmamaw
As a regular user of TikTok, I found the interaction between Bambi and Solomon engaging. In the live conversation between the couple, I admired how Bambi asserted herself, expressing clarity and boldness in her conversations with Solomon. She even claimed that she was wild in her past life, which was a refreshing honesty.
I was rooting for her until I saw the videos and the so-called “evidence” Solomon shared on Instagram. The complexities and layers of their relationship became apparent. And to be honest, I don’t have a ground for commenting on their relationship publicly.
However, I wanted to talk about the claims Solomon made, he alleged that Bambi is, in some way, involved in sex work (on the working definition that sex work is the exchange of sexual services, performances, or products for material compensation). I won’t pass judgment on whether this is true or not, but if it is, I want to take a moment to discuss this matter. (Because it is true for many women in Ethiopia)
In a way, I believe that most females are involved in sex work, particularly within the patriarchal structure of marriages. You see, traditionally, the man is seen as the provider, and women take on roles like cooking, nurturing children, and offering sexual services in exchange for various forms of compensation, such as a house, protection, or perhaps a car if she’s fortunate. Though not directly comparable to sex work, there exists a spectrum in our lives, indicating a system that has been created and maintained.
I adopt a radical feminist perspective on sex work due to the perceived oppression within it. It’s concerning to me that, most often, females are the ones involved, and during the process, they are compelled to subject themselves to harsh conditions, wearing minimal clothing even in cold weather. They face shame, stigma, and abuse, often without support. I find the entire system that has established and sustained this situation to be oppressive and unjust towards women.
It’s important to recognize the economic aspect of sex work. Studies suggest that women facing greater oppression are more likely to engage in sex work. For instance, during the five-year Italian invasion, Addis Ababa saw a surge in sex work as women, deprived of income due to the absence of breadwinners, sought alternative means to meet the demand created by Italian soldiers. This highlights the economic dimensions that can push individuals into sex work, particularly when faced with limited employable skills.
Crucially, cultural factors play a significant role, explaining why even educated and resourceful women may be involved in earning money using their sexuality. The pervasive patriarchal culture that hypersexualizes women establishes a demand for their sexuality. The way we talk about, sing about, and define womanhood all contribute to this dynamic. Capitalism, in turn, capitalizes on this demand through movies, TV shows, products, music videos, and lyrics, as well as the fashion industry, selling various aspects of women’s sexuality—her smile, innocence, physique, and more. This inevitably creates an environment where individuals might view selling sexual favors as an opportunity to earn money
Before passing judgment on Bambi based on Solomon’s claims (if we believe him, I mean), we must reflect on how we might be contributing to this system through our jokes, conversations, and overall perceptions of women.
Remember, there can only be a supply if there is a demand.
