A recent study has revealed the significant health risks associated with “blesser” relationships among young women in South Africa. These relationships typically involve older, wealthier men providing financial support or gifts in exchange for companionship that often includes sexual activity. While these arrangements may seem appealing, they are deeply intertwined with the country’s high levels of inequality and youth unemployment, which can lead to severe long-term consequences for women’s health and wellbeing.
In South Africa, which ranks as the most unequal country globally, many young women perceive having a blesser as a pathway to a better lifestyle. This trend is particularly prevalent in urban settings, where the visibility of wealth and status can significantly impact social dynamics. However, research led by Gavin George and colleagues offers new insights into the darker side of these relationships, shedding light on the associated health risks.
Health Risks Linked to Blesser Relationships
The study analyzed data from over 3,000 sexually active adolescent girls and young women across eight of South Africa’s nine provinces. Approximately 6% of participants reported being in a relationship with a blesser, while over 25% had engaged with an older partner, defined as someone five or more years their senior. Although the percentage of women involved in blesser relationships might appear low, it translates to thousands of young women across the nation participating in high-risk partnerships.
The findings are alarming: young women engaged in both blesser and age-disparate relationships face heightened risks of contracting HIV, sexually transmitted infections, intimate partner violence, and unintended pregnancies. The study indicates that age disparity plays a crucial role in exacerbating these risks, particularly concerning unwanted pregnancies.
Research identified several pathways through which these dangers arise. Many young women report feeling powerless in negotiations over safe sex practices, often feeling unable to refuse condom use due to financial dependency on their partners. One participant shared, “When he says no condom, I can’t say no to him.” The issue of concurrency, where blessers have multiple partners, increases the likelihood of HIV transmission, compounding the danger for young women.
The Broader Context of Blesser Relationships
The implications of these findings extend beyond individual health. The study highlights how societal norms and economic factors create an environment where young women feel pressured to enter such relationships. The allure of financial support and social visibility can mask the inherent risks, leading to a disillusionment that often follows initial excitement.
The prevalence of HIV among adolescent girls and young women aged 15-24 in South Africa stands at 6.9%, significantly higher than the 3.5% prevalence among their male peers. This health disparity reflects underlying issues such as economic dependence and entrenched gender norms. Furthermore, in 2023, 12.1% of all births in South Africa were to girls aged 10-19, with a significant proportion being unplanned.
Addressing these risks requires urgent action. The study calls for the implementation of comprehensive sexual health education programs that empower young people with knowledge about their rights and the dynamics of power in relationships. Economic opportunities must also be created to reduce reliance on blessers, while safe spaces for mentoring and counseling can help young women navigate their choices more effectively.
The phenomenon of blessers is not simply a moral failing but a complex issue rooted in broader societal challenges. No young woman should have to choose between short-term security and long-term wellbeing. As South Africa continues to grapple with high levels of inequality and unemployment, fostering equitable partnerships and supportive communities is essential to creating viable alternatives for young women.
