By Jones Gadama
The recent case of a 37-year-old Kenyan woman, who was convicted and sentenced to death in Vietnam for trafficking cocaine, has once again highlighted the risks and consequences faced by African women who engage in illicit trade.
Despite the dangers and harsh penalties, many women continue to be drawn into this world, often with devastating consequences.
To understand why African women engage in illicit trade, it is essential to examine the complex interplay of factors that drive them to take such risks.
Poverty, lack of economic opportunities, and limited access to education and job training are some of the primary factors that contribute to the allure of illicit trade.
In many African countries, women are disproportionately affected by poverty and lack of economic opportunities.
According to the African Development Bank, women make up approximately 70% of the informal sector in Africa, which is often characterized by low-paying and precarious work.
This lack of economic stability and security can make illicit trade seem like an attractive option, particularly for women who are desperate to provide for themselves and their families.
Another factor that contributes to the involvement of African women in illicit trade is the lack of access to education and job training.
In many African countries, women have limited access to education and job training, which can make it difficult for them to secure formal employment.
This can lead to a sense of desperation and hopelessness, which can make illicit trade seem like a viable option.
The case of the 37-year-old Kenyan woman who was convicted and sentenced to death in Vietnam is a tragic example of the consequences of engaging in illicit trade.
According to reports, the woman was arrested in 2018 at Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport with 3.5 kilograms of cocaine in her luggage.
She was subsequently convicted and sentenced to death, although her execution has been delayed to allow for diplomatic discussions.
The involvement of African women in illicit trade is not limited to cocaine trafficking. Women are also involved in the trafficking of other illicit goods, including heroin, methamphetamine, and counterfeit goods.
The consequences of engaging in these activities can be severe, including imprisonment, fines, and even death.
So, what can be done to prevent African women from engaging in illicit trade?
One solution is to provide women with access to education and job training, which can help them to secure formal employment and improve their economic prospects.
Governments and non-governmental organizations can also provide support and resources to women who are involved in illicit trade, including counseling, rehabilitation, and reintegration programs.
In addition, governments can take steps to address the root causes of poverty and lack of economic opportunities, including investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
This can help to create jobs and stimulate economic growth, reducing the allure of illicit trade.
The case of the 37-year-old Kenyan woman who was convicted and sentenced to death in Vietnam is a tragic reminder of the consequences of engaging in illicit trade.
However, it also highlights the need for governments and non-governmental organizations to provide support and resources to women who are involved in illicit trade, and to address the root causes of poverty and lack of economic opportunities.
By providing women with access to education and job training, and by addressing the root causes of poverty and lack of economic opportunities, we can help to reduce the involvement of African women in illicit trade and prevent tragedies like the one that befell the 37-year-old Kenyan woman.
As the diplomatic discussions surrounding the Kenyan woman’s execution continue, it is essential that we remember the human cost of illicit trade and the need for compassion and understanding.
By working together, we can create a safer and more prosperous future for African women and reduce the allure of illicit trade.
