Study Reveals ‘Blesser‘ Relationships Pose Notable Risks to Young South African Women
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – A new body of research from South Africa highlights teh dangers inherent in “blesser” relationships – transactional connections between older men and younger women often involving financial or material support in exchange for companionship, and frequently, sex.The study reveals these relationships,while sometimes initially perceived as empowering,are deeply rooted in economic vulnerability and gender inequality,leading to increased risks of HIV,unintended pregnancies,and violence.
Researchers have identified several key pathways through which these relationships endanger young women. These include reduced ability to negotiate safe sex due to financial dependence, the increased likelihood of HIV transmission stemming from blessers frequently enough having multiple partners, and the difficulty young women face in leaving relationships even when unhappy, as illustrated by one respondent who stated, “I wanted to leave, but then who would pay my fees?” The social prestige sometimes associated with being seen with a blesser also encourages others to enter similar arrangements without fully understanding the potential consequences.
A qualitative study published in 2024 in Nature further explored the complexities of these dynamics, building on previous quantitative findings. While some young women initially described these relationships as offering access to resources and social visibility, the researchers found this empowerment to be fragile, consistently undermined by power imbalances. Respondents reported an initial sense of achievement – “At first, I felt like I had made it - nice clothes, nice places” – that ultimately gave way to disillusionment. “Eventually I realised it wasn’t really me who was in control,” one woman shared. Another succinctly summarized the dynamic: “A blesser gives with one hand and takes with the other.”
The research underscores that these relationships are not simply matters of individual choice, but are instead driven by widespread poverty, unemployment, and deeply ingrained gender norms. For many young women, a “blesser” may appear to be the only viable path to financial security, education, or social advancement.
Though,the consequences are severe.According to recent data, the HIV prevalence rate among adolescent girls and young women aged 15-24 years in South Africa is 6.9%, significantly higher than the 3.5% rate among males of the same age. Furthermore, unintended pregnancies are a major concern, with 12.1% of all births in 2023 occurring to girls aged 10-19, and over three-quarters of those births being unplanned. The study also points to the detrimental impact of violence on the health, dignity, and future opportunities of young women involved in these relationships.
Researchers have outlined several urgent priorities to address the issue, including providing young people with complete sexual health education, data about power dynamics, and an understanding of their rights. Crucially, they emphasize the need to create economic opportunities to reduce dependence on “blessers,” and to establish safe spaces, mentoring programs, and counseling services to help young women navigate relationships and build resilience.
The research stresses the importance of challenging harmful social norms by engaging men, families, and communities to promote gender equality.Ultimately,the solution lies in creating viable alternatives – secure livelihoods,equitable partnerships,and supportive communities – so that no young woman is forced to choose between immediate financial security and long-term wellbeing.
