For many LGBTQ+ South Africans, it is also an opportunity to learn how harm reduction can save lives, improve health and uphold human rights.

This year’s IOAD theme, “25 Years On. Still Needed.”, is both a reflection and a challenge. For a quarter of a century, the campaign has brought people together to remember lives lost and advocate for change. Yet overdose continues to affect people from every background and community.

Why This Matters for LGBTQ+ People

For some people, substance use can be linked to experiences of stigma, discrimination, trauma, rejection or poor mental health. Others may use drugs recreationally in social settings or as part of sexual experiences, including chemsex.

Whatever the circumstances, everyone deserves access to accurate information, compassionate healthcare and support without fear of judgement.

That is the foundation of harm reduction.

Rather than focusing on punishment or demanding abstinence before offering help, harm reduction aims to reduce the health, social and legal harms associated with drug use.

It recognises that people deserve dignity, healthcare and evidence-based support regardless of whether they are currently using drugs.

What Is Harm Reduction?

Harm reduction is grounded in human rights, compassion and science.

It does not demand abstinence (stopping substance use). It foregrounds practical measures that reduce the risk of overdose and other health harms while helping people stay connected to healthcare and support services.

These approaches can include:

• Information about safer drug use, helping users understand health risks and potentially harmful combinations of drugs
• Drug checking services that check the purity of illicit drugs to identify dangerous contaminants
• Needle and syringe programmes that reduce the spread of HIV and hepatitis
• Provision of clean glass pipes for smoking and balm for cuts on lips
• Condom distribution
• Opioid agonist maintenance therapy for people using heroin
• Prevention and treatment measures for sexually transmitted infections, HIV, viral hepatitis and tuberculosis, such as regular testing, vaccination and treatment optimisation
• Overdose prevention education and life-saving interventions
• Psychosocial support
• Housing and employment initiatives that do not require abstinence as a condition of support

Research from around the world has consistently shown that harm reduction is cost-effective, evidence-based and improves both individual and public health outcomes. Studies have demonstrated that comprehensive harm reduction services can lead to a 41% lower risk of HIV infection and a 76% lower risk of acquiring hepatitis C.

Nearly 100 countries have already adopted harm reduction policies or programmes.

Criminalisation Has Failed

One of the central messages of International Overdose Awareness Day is that criminalising drug use has not solved the problem.

Instead, punitive drug laws often drive drug use underground, increase stigma and discourage people from seeking healthcare or calling for help during an overdose.

The campaign argues that responses based on healthcare, education and human rights are far more effective than punishment.

South Africa is beginning to see growing support for this approach.

In June, the Vusubuntu Coalition for the Decriminalisation of Drugs for Personal Use launched with a call for the country to rethink its response to drug use.

The coalition – of which OUT LGBT Well-being is a member – argues that people found with small amounts of drugs for personal use should receive healthcare, information and social support rather than arrest and criminal records.

Importantly, the coalition emphasises that decriminalisation is not the same as legalisation. Instead, it seeks to treat drug use primarily as a public health and social issue.

According to the coalition, this approach could reduce stigma, improve access to care, strengthen communities and ease pressure on South Africa’s criminal justice system.

Compassion Saves Lives

International Overdose Awareness Day reminds us that every overdose statistic represents a person who was loved, valued and part of a community.

The campaign calls on everyone to learn about overdose prevention, challenge stigma and support policies that prioritise health, dignity and evidence over fear and punishment.

For LGBTQ+ communities, where many people continue to face barriers to healthcare and support, these conversations are more important than ever.

At OUT LGBT Well-being provides confidential, affirming healthcare and harm reduction support in a safe, welcoming environment in Johannesburg and Pretoria.

Pretoria: +DR LGBTQ+ Medical Practice in Pretoria. WhatsApp 072 113 6597 to find out more or book an appointment or contact Sello for support on 071 765 7039 or email motsomanes@out.org.za.

Johannesburg: WhatsApp OUT Johannesburg on 060 909 2611 for more information.

Article photo: Pexels / Ketut Subiyanto

The post International Overdose Awareness Day: Why Harm Reduction Matters for South Africa’s LGBTQ+ Community appeared first on OUT.

While anyone can get viral hepatitis, some forms – such as hepatitis A and B – can disproportionately affect men who have sex with men (MSM) at higher rates because of how these viruses can be transmitted through sexual contact and exposure to body excretions.

Additionally, South Africa has recently entered the top ten countries with the highest burden of new hepatitis C infections.

The good news is that hepatitis A and B are preventable through vaccination, and all types can be managed with appropriate medical care.

What is viral hepatitis?

The liver plays a vital role in filtering the blood, processing nutrients, supporting digestion, and removing harmful substances from the body. Viral hepatitis occurs when a virus infects the liver, causing inflammation. The main types are:

Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A usually causes a short-term infection. It does not typically become chronic, but it can make someone very unwell for weeks.

Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B can become a long-term (chronic) infection and may lead to serious liver problems, including liver failure or cancer if untreated.

Hepatitis C: Hepatitis C can also become chronic and may cause long-term liver damage; however, modern treatments can usually cure hepatitis C.

Why are MSM affected by viral hepatitis?

MSM are not at risk because of sexual orientation or identity. The risk is linked to certain ways these viruses can spread.

Hepatitis A transmission
Hepatitis A can spread through contact with tiny amounts of infected faecal matter. During sexual activity, this can happen through oral-anal contact or contact involving the anus. Outbreaks of hepatitis A among MSM communities have occurred in many countries.

Hepatitis B transmission
Hepatitis B is highly infectious and can spread through:

• Semen and other sexual fluids
• Contact with infected blood
• Unprotected sexual contact
• Sharing needles or drug-use paraphernalia
• Unsterile medical practices including medical procedures, tattoos, or blood transfusions

Hepatitis C transmission
Hepatitis C spreads mainly through blood-to-blood contact. Among MSM, transmission risk can increase through:

• Sexual activities that involve blood exposure
• Sharing drug-injecting equipment
• Sharing equipment used for certain sexual practices
• Having HIV can increase one’s vulnerability and disease progression

What are the symptoms of viral hepatitis?

Many people with hepatitis have no symptoms, especially in the early stages. This means someone can have hepatitis and unknowingly pass it on.

When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Extreme tiredness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Fever
• Joint pain
• Dark urine
• Pale stools
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may last weeks or longer. Because symptoms are not always obvious, testing is important, especially if you may have been exposed.

How can MSM prevent viral hepatitis?

1. Get vaccinated

Vaccination is the best protection against:

• Hepatitis A: A safe and effective vaccine is available
• Hepatitis B: The hepatitis B vaccine provides strong protection and is recommended for people who may have increased exposure risk.

2. Use safer sex practices
Ways to reduce risk include:

• Using condoms and barriers where appropriate
• Using lubricant to reduce skin damage during sex
• Avoiding sharing sex toys unless they are cleaned properly or covered with a new condom between users
• Avoiding contact with blood
• Getting tested regularly if you have ongoing risk

3. Get regular sexual health screenings
Ask your healthcare provider about hepatitis testing, especially if you:

• Have multiple sexual partners
• Are living with HIV
• Have had a sexually transmitted infection (STI)
• Have had condomless sex
• Use drugs that involve needles

Can viral hepatitis be treated?

Hepatitis A: There is no specific antiviral treatment, but most people recover fully with medical support and rest.

Hepatitis B: There is no universal cure, but antiviral medicines can control the virus, reduce liver damage, and lower the risk of complications. Some people clear the infection naturally.

Hepatitis C: Hepatitis C is usually curable with modern direct-acting antiviral medicines, often taken for a short course of treatment. Reinfection is possible.

Living well with hepatitis

A hepatitis diagnosis does not mean your sex life or relationships have to stop. With vaccination, testing, treatment and support, people living with hepatitis can maintain healthy lives. A balanced diet, exercise and reduced alcohol intake will aid the recovery of the liver. If you think you may have been exposed, do not panic — speak to a healthcare provider about testing and the next steps.

Knowing your status protects your health and helps protect your partners. Get vaccinated. Get tested. Get treated.

Hepatitis services at +DR in Pretoria

At +DR—OUT LGBT Wellbeing’s stigma-free, patient-centred medical practice in Pretoria—we are dedicated to keeping our community safe and healthy. To empower you to take charge of your health, we are running a special community campaign:

Get a FREE hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis C antibody test for the entire month of July!

How to claim your free test and/or vaccine: Simply book your appointment and use the promo code HEPATITIS when you check in.

To make an appointment for +DR, WhatsApp +27 72 113 6597, call +27 12 430 3272, email clinic@out.org.za or book online here.

The post Viral Hepatitis and MSM: What You Need to Know appeared first on OUT.

The convening was hosted by the Other Foundation in partnership with the the Centre for Human Rights at the University of Pretoria Faculty of Law, South Africa.

OUT was represented by Sibonelo Ncanana-Trower in his capacity as Human Rights Officer. He also attended on behalf of the National LGBTI Task Team on SOGIESC Matters.

The convening forms part of an ongoing regional process that began in 2022 and seeks to strengthen coordinated, accessible, and responsive protection and emergency mechanisms for LGBTI human rights defenders across Southern Africa. Participants engaged with a draft research report commissioned by the Other Foundation and contributed to shaping a practical, regionally grounded emergency response protocol informed by the lived realities of defenders.

Speaking during the convening, Ncanana-Trower emphasised the urgency of collective accountability and shared systems of care:

“For LGBTI human rights defenders, safety cannot depend on who you know or where you are based. We need a strong and shared protocol that is trusted across the region, rooted in lived realities, and capable of responding quickly when lives are at risk. Solidarity must move beyond statements into coordinated action that saves lives.”

OUT LGBT Wellbeing welcomes this important step towards a regionally supported emergency response framework and reaffirms its commitment to working with partners, movements, and institutions to ensure that LGBTI human rights defenders are protected, supported, and able to continue their vital work without fear.

The post OUT Participates in Regional Protection and Emergency Response Convening appeared first on OUT.

Here’s what you need to know about LEN, how it works, and where you can get it in Gauteng.

What is LEN

• LEN is six-monthly injections type of PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) given to prevent HIV
• When used as prescribed, LEN is more than 96% effective in preventing HIV
• LEN is safe to use
• LEN contains an antiretroviral ingredient called lenacapavir
• It is injected just under the skin on the stomach area or buttocks

Who can use LEN?

Any person who has an HIV-negative test result and weighs 35kg or more.

How do I get started?

When you start using LEN for the first time, you will:

• Receive 2 injections and 2 pills
• Receive 2 pills to take home, to be taken the next day
  (NB: The two tablets that you take on day 1 and day 2, must be taken 24 hours apart, not sooner and not later!)

After that, you return to the clinic after 1 month for an HIV test and check-up.

Return to the clinic six months (after your first two injections) for 2 injections and continue doing so every six months.

How soon does it start working?

LEN starts working on day 3 if you received the injection and took 2 tablets on day 1, and 2 tablets on day 2.

Any side effects?

Most people experience injection site reactions (redness, pain, and/or swelling). A small number of people may experience nausea or feel sick. If you experience any of these reactions, the staff at the clinic will assist you.

NB: It is normal to feel a small lump under the skin where the injection was given – this is normal, and you don’t have to be concerned about this.

Why choose LEN?

• It can be kept private
• It is safe
• It is very effective in preventing HIV
• There is no need to remember to use it every day

How does LEN prevent HIV?

Lenacapavir is slowly released into the bloodstream, where it prevents HIV from multiplying.

What does LEN not do?

While LEN prevents HIV, it does not prevent pregnancy or STIs. Condoms and contraception can be used together with LEN if you want to prevent STIs and getting pregnant.

What happens when I stop using LEN

At 28 weeks (6 and a half months) after your last injection, LEN no longer prevents HIV. If you may still be exposed to HIV, you’ll need to use another prevention method such as oral PrEP and/or condoms. Speak to your healthcare provider for guidance on stopping LEN safely.

Where can I get LEN?

• LEN will be available at selected Department of Health clinics from June 2026
• It is not yet available in private clinics or chemists
• For a list of LEN clinics in Gauteng, click here

* Information source: Department of Health * Photo: cottonbro studio / Pexels 

The post All About LEN and Where to Get It appeared first on OUT.

Pretoria, South Africa – A new community survey conducted by OUT LGBT Well-being has found strong enthusiasm among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM) for Lenacapavir (LEN), the groundbreaking long-acting HIV prevention injection that is set to be introduced in South Africa’s public health sector.

The online survey, conducted between 22 May and 2 June 2026, gathered 277 responses from MSM across South Africa to better understand community perceptions, concerns and preferences regarding LEN.

The results suggest that LEN has the potential to substantially increase both uptake and adherence to HIV prevention among MSM, a population that continues to experience a disproportionately high burden of HIV.

Lenacapavir is a new form of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) that protects against HIV infection. Unlike traditional oral PrEP, which requires taking a tablet every day, LEN is administered as injections only twice a year.

According to the survey, 85% of respondents said they were keen to start LEN when it becomes available, while an even larger proportion (87%) indicated that they would prefer receiving injections every six months rather than taking a daily HIV prevention pill.

“The findings show that many MSM are excited about the arrival of Lenacapavir and see it as a more convenient and manageable option than daily oral PrEP,” said OUT LGBT Well-being Executive Director Dawie Nel.

“For years, we have known that remembering to take a daily pill can be challenging for many people. The strong preference for twice-yearly injections suggests that LEN could help more people start and stay on HIV prevention, which is extremely encouraging.”

Concerns About Access and Side Effects

While interest in LEN was high, the survey also highlighted areas where more information and community education are needed.

Respondents expressed uncertainty about where LEN would be available and whether it is safe for people who use drugs or those living with mental health conditions.

Side effects emerged as the biggest concern among respondents, followed by worries about potential costs and the risk of acquiring other sexually transmitted infections.

“These findings tell us that there is still a need for clear, accessible and community-centred education about Lenacapavir,” said Nel.

“People want accurate information about how the injection works, who can use it, its safety profile and where they will be able to access it. As the rollout begins, ensuring communities have trusted information will be essential.”

LGBT-Affirming Services Remain the Preferred Choice

The survey also reinforced the importance of LGBT-affirming healthcare environments.

Nearly half of respondents (47%) said they would prefer to receive LEN at an LGBT-affirming clinic, compared to just 18% who selected Department of Health facilities as their preferred option.

Concerns centred on long waiting times at public sector clinics and perceptions that these facilities remain unwelcoming towards MSM.

“The message from the community is clear: respectful, affirming and non-judgemental healthcare matters,” Nel noted. “Many MSM continue to feel more comfortable accessing services in environments where they know they will be treated with dignity and understanding. The successful rollout of LEN will depend not only on making the medication available but also on ensuring that healthcare services are welcoming and accessible to the communities that need them most.”

OUT LGBT Well-being said the survey findings will help inform its HIV prevention programmes and advocacy efforts as South Africa prepares to introduce Lenacapavir through selected public healthcare facilities.

Survey at a Glance

• 277 completed responses
• Conducted online from 22 May to 2 June 2026
• 85% keen to start LEN when available
• 87% prefer LEN injections over daily PrEP pills
• Side effects identified as the leading concern
• 47% prefer accessing LEN at LGBT-affirming clinics
• 18% prefer Department of Health facilities
• Concerns about public clinics include waiting times and lack of MSM-friendly services

The post OUT Survey Finds Strong Demand for Twice-Yearly HIV Prevention Injection Among South African MSM appeared first on OUT.

In its work in Johannesburg, OUT found that 15% of MSM who showed no symptoms tested positive for a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Reinforcing these concerns, data from the Gauteng Department of Health shows that the percentage of men with STIs in the province rose from 12% in 2020 to 15% in 2023.

Of particular concern is syphilis, which can go unnoticed for long periods while still causing serious harm and being easily transmitted.

“Syphilis is often called a ‘silent’ infection because people may not realise they have it,” says Dawie Nel from +DR. “You can feel completely fine and still be living with an infection that can be passed on to others and lead to serious complications if left untreated.”

Why Syphilis Matters

Syphilis is a bacterial STI spread through direct sexual contact, especially during condomless anal, oral, or vaginal sex. It develops in stages, each with different symptoms — and sometimes none at all.

In its early stage, syphilis may appear as a single painless sore on or around the genitals, anus, or mouth. Because it doesn’t hurt, many people miss it. Later stages can include rashes, fatigue, swollen glands, and other symptoms that may come and go.

If untreated, syphilis can remain in the body for years and, in rare cases, lead to serious complications affecting the brain, heart, and other organs.

“The key message is simple: don’t wait for symptoms,” says Nel. “Regular testing is the only reliable way to know your status and protect your health and your partners.”

The Link Between Syphilis and HIV

Syphilis does not exist in isolation — it can also increase the risk of HIV transmission.

Having a sore or break in the skin caused by an STI such as syphilis can make it easier for HIV to enter the body. In addition, the same behaviours and circumstances that increase the risk of contracting STIs can also increase vulnerability to HIV.

“Protecting yourself from STIs like syphilis is also part of protecting yourself from HIV,” Nel explains. “These infections are closely linked, which is why regular screening and prevention are so important.”

Treatment and Prevention

Thankfully, syphilis is easily treatable with antibiotics, although if left late, treatment might not undo damage the infection may have caused. This again highlights the importance of regular testing.

Prevention options for syphilis include reducing the number of sexual partners and using condoms during sex. Screening for syphilis is advised annually.

In addition, Doxy PEP (doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis) can be very effective. This entails taking a single 200 mg dose of prescribed antibiotics (doxycycline) within 72 hours after condomless sex to reduce the risk of bacterial STIs, including syphilis.

“When used correctly, Doxy PEP can be a powerful additional tool for people at higher risk,” Nel says. “It can significantly reduce the chances of infection when combined with regular screening.”

Accessible, Inclusive Care at +DR

Launched in April 2026, +DR is a doctor-led medical practice in Lynwood, Pretoria, offering safe, specialised, welcoming, and stigma-free healthcare tailored to LGBT+ communities.

Services include:

• HIV testing and treatment (ART)
• PrEP and PEP for HIV prevention
• STI testing and treatment, including syphilis screening, Doxy PEP and treatment
• General health screenings and chronic care

“Too many people avoid healthcare because they fear judgement or discrimination,” says Nel. “At +DR, we’ve created a space where you can be yourself and get the care you need without stigma. Your health matters — and you deserve respectful, informed care.”

Book a Consultation and Get a Free Syphilis Test

+DR is offering a free syphilis antibody (Ab) test to any client attending an in-person consultation during May 2026. To claim the offer, use the promo code “SYPHILIS” when booking via WhatsApp, enter it in the “Additional Information” section of the online booking form, or mention it when calling to make an appointment.

Book a virtual or in-person appointment:

• WhatsApp: 072 113 6597
• Phone: 012 430 3272 (08:30–15:00, Monday to Friday)
• Book online: https://www.recomed.co.za/nurse/pretoria/dr-out-wellbeing/61389/74777/
• Email: clinic@out.org.za

Consultations are reasonably priced, medical aids are accepted, and Discovery members may qualify for Vitality rewards.

About +DR

+DR is an innovative healthcare initiative by OUT LGBT Well-being, designed to provide inclusive, patient-centred medical services for LGBT+ communities at reasonable rates. The practice offers a full range of sexual health, HIV care, and general health services tailored to diverse needs.

Photo: Ketut Subiyanto / Pexels

The post +DR Urges Regular STI Testing for Gay and MSM Communities Amid Rising Syphilis Concerns appeared first on OUT.

Health professionals say the message is simple: early detection saves lives.

Dawie Nel from +DR, a specialised LGBT+ medical practice in Lynwood, Pretoria, explains that regular self-examinations and routine health check-ups are key to identifying warning signs early.

“Testicular cancer is especially prevalent among men aged 15 to 39,” says Nel. “The positive news is that when it’s detected early, treatment outcomes are very good.”

However, he notes that many men delay seeking medical care.

“Unfortunately, men — including many in LGBT+ communities — often avoid healthcare services because of embarrassment, fear or stigma. But looking after your health should never feel uncomfortable,” he says.

Who Is Most at Risk?

While anyone with testicles can develop testicular cancer, some factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These include:

• Being between 15 and 39 years old
• Being born with an undescended testicle (cryptorchidism)
• Having a family history of testicular cancer
• Living with HIV, which may increase risk

Understanding these risk factors can help people stay vigilant about changes in their bodies.

Symptoms That Should Not Be Ignored

Nel recommends performing a monthly testicular self-examination, ideally after a warm bath or shower when the skin of the scrotum is relaxed.

Key warning signs include:

• A painless lump or swelling in either testicle
• A dull ache or feeling of heaviness in the scrotum or lower abdomen
• A sudden build-up of fluid in the scrotum
• Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum

It’s normal for one testicle to hang lower or feel slightly larger. The key is noticing changes over time. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for a full examination.

“Don’t ignore changes in your body,” says Nel. “Getting something checked early can make all the difference.”

Book a Screening with +DR

+DR offers welcoming, safe and stigma-free LGBT+ inclusive healthcare services in Pretoria and encourages people to prioritise routine health screenings and preventative care.

Consultations are reasonably priced, medical aids are accepted, and Discovery members may qualify for Vitality rewards for visits.

Appointments can be made through the following channels:

• WhatsApp +27 72 113 6597
• Phone +27 12 430 3272
• Book online: click here
• Email clinic@out.org.za

About +DR

Launched on 1 April 2026 by OUT LGBT Well-being, +DR is an innovative doctor-led medical practice in Pretoria focused on providing inclusive, respectful and LGBT+ patient-centred healthcare. Services include:

HIV Care: HIV testing and ART management

HIV Prevention: Pre-and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP / PEP), medical circumcision

Sexual Health Services: STI testing and treatment, viral hepatitis screening and care

Chemsex Harm Reduction Services: Aligned with the Southern African HIV Clinicians Society Harm Reduction Guideline for Chemsex

General Health Services: Screening for diabetes, hypertension, obesity, mental health conditions, cancer, and management of chronic conditions

Through these services, +DR aims to make healthcare accessible and responsive to the needs of diverse communities.

The post Young Men Urged to Check Themselves During Testicular Cancer Awareness Month appeared first on OUT.

+Dr represents both a return to Pretoria for OUT, where it first began its work more than three decades ago, and a bold new model for LGBT healthcare.

The launch follows the 2025 US government funding cuts that led to the shuttering of several expert health services across South Africa. Now, +Dr introduces a paid-for but affordable practice that offers expert, stigma-free care. Clients can be completely open, knowing they will be respected and receive appropriate, professional healthcare.

“+Dr represents our decision to reimagine, creating a sustainable, paid-for model that ensures open and confidential services. The key advantage is that clients can speak honestly about their life, without fearing judgement or inaccurate risk assessments. Our staff are experts in sexual health, including the use of stimulants,” says Dawie Nel, Director of OUT LGBT Well-being.

Many LGBT people report that mainstream healthcare providers, in both the public and private sectors, make assumptions about their sexuality, relationships, drug use or sexual practices. These stereotypes often result in stigma, intrusive or inappropriate questioning, inaccurate risk assessments and ultimately poorer health outcomes.

Such presumed norms can leave clients feeling too intimidated to speak openly about their concerns. In addition, many healthcare workers lack specific expertise in anal health, diverse STIs, substance use, and the realities of how LGBT people have sex.

+Dr directly addresses these gaps. Led by an affirming doctor and nurse with extensive experience in key population health, the practice offers knowledgeable, respectful care — ensuring that clients never have to fear embarrassment, judgement or shame when discussing their sexual health.

“Members of the LGBT community often have to navigate healthcare spaces where we feel misunderstood, judged or forced to educate our own doctors. +Dr changes that,” says Nel. “Our staff know our community and have more than 10 years’ experience working on issues such as STIs (sexually transmitted infections), substance use and the expert treatment of HIV. We follow a harm reduction approach and respect our clients’ choices. You will not be judged.”

+Dr will provide the following medical and wellness services:

• HIV management: HIV testing, ART initiation, and chronic treatment monitoring.
• Prevention options: PrEP, including injectable PrEP (subject to availability), PEP, hepatitis B vaccination, medical circumcision (pre-authorisation required), and condom distribution (when available).
• Sexual health and wellness: STI testing and treatment, including viral hepatitis.
• Chemsex harm reduction: As per the Southern African HIV Clinicians Society Harm Reduction Guideline for Chemsex.
• Non-communicable disease management: Screening for diabetes, hypertension, obesity, mental health, cancer, mpox, etc., and management of diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidaemia.

Operating Hours & Fees: From 1 April 2026

Services on weekdays.
Pre-authorisations are required for certain procedures.
Medical Aid or cashless service (cards only).
Discovery members may qualify for Vitality rewards for visits.

• 15-minute face-to-face consultation: R460
• 15-minute telehealth consultation: R350

To make an appointment for +Dr, WhatsApp +27 72 113 6597, call +27 12 430 3272, email clinic@out.org.za or book online here.

Photo: Ketut Subiyanto / Pexels

The post OUT LGBT Well-being Launches +Dr: A New Dedicated, Affirming Health Service for LGBT people in Pretoria appeared first on OUT.

The NTT, convened by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, serves as a crucial platform to strengthen coordination between government and civil society in preventing and responding to hate crimes and discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC).

“This appointment reflects OUT’s long-standing commitment to advancing equality, dignity and justice for LGBTIQ+ communities,” said Dawie Nel, Executive Director of OUT LGBT Well-being. “Sibonelo has demonstrated consistent and principled leadership in their work, combining grassroots understanding with national advocacy. Their appointment signals a continued strengthening of community voice and accountability within the NTT.”

As Human Rights Coordinator, Ncanana-Trower has played a pivotal role in coordinating OUT’s human rights and hate crimes programme, leading national partnerships, and strengthening case-referral mechanisms across provinces. Their work has centred on supporting survivors of hate crimes, building the capacity of community-based organisations, and amplifying the rights of lesbian, bisexual, queer women, transgender and intersex persons in advocacy and policy spaces.

“I’m honoured to serve as Co-Chair,” said Sibonelo Ncanana-Trower. “The NTT must be a living structure that reflects the realities of survivors and communities on the ground. My focus will be on strengthening provincial coordination, ensuring survivor-centred responses, and building collaboration between civil society and state institutions to make equality a lived reality.”

Key Priorities for the NTT under Ncanana-Trower’s Co-Leadership

Survivor-Centred Justice: Strengthening coordination between police, courts, and support services to ensure timely, respectful, and accountable responses.

Provincial Collaboration: Building active, well-supported Provincial Task Teams that work hand in hand with municipalities and CBOs.

Inclusivity: Ensuring trans, intersex, and LBQ voices are fully represented and protected in national responses and policy frameworks.

Data and Accountability: Improving monitoring and reporting systems to inform prevention strategies and government accountability.

Community Empowerment: Resourcing and training grassroots partners to document cases, provide support, and sustain advocacy.

About OUT LGBT Well-being

Founded in 1994, OUT LGBT Well-being is one of South Africa’s longest-standing LGBTIQ+ health and human rights organisations. OUT works to advance the health, well-being, and human rights of LGBTIQ+ people through rights-based services, research, advocacy, and strategic partnerships. OUT’s work includes HIV prevention and treatment programmes, mental-health support, hate-crime response and legal referrals, and national-level policy advocacy.

Media Contact

OUT LGBT Well-being – Human Rights Office

Email: sncanana@out.org.za

WhatsApp: +27663955731

Website: www.out.org.za

The post Media Statement: OUT LGBT Well-being’s Sibonelo Ncanana-Trower appointed Co-Chair of the National Task Team on SOGIESC Matters appeared first on OUT.

Johannesburg – 14 August 2025 – We, the undersigned queer organisations, are deeply alarmed and frustrated by the continued delays in the prosecution of the “Grindr 7” case (Hillbrow CAS 523/09/2023), in which seven accused are charged with the abduction, brutal assault, and extortion of a young queer person in Johannesburg.

Since the arrest of the seven accused in September 2023, this matter has been repeatedly postponed — with hearings delayed for months due to legal representation issues, procedural backlogs, and administrative inefficiencies. After nearly two years, the case is finally scheduled for trial from 18 August 2025 to 20 August 2025.

This case is not just about one incident. It amplifies the ongoing and deliberate targeting of the LGBTIQ+ community by a well-organised criminal syndicate using dating and social media apps, most commonly Grindr, to lure victims under the guise of romantic or social meetings. Once trapped, victims are subjected to violence, robbery, and in some cases, sexual assault.

The persistence of these attacks over more than a decade reflects not only the brutality of the perpetrators but also the systemic negligence of state institutions that continue to treat violence against queer people as peripheral and non-urgent. Similar patterns and incidents have been reported in other provinces, and, in some cases, the victims have been murdered, with others kidnapped and still missing. Yet there is little evidence of a coordinated effort by law enforcement to investigate and dismantle this network.

In the few instances where cases reach the courts, the drawn-out legal process not only prolongs the trauma of the victim and their loved ones but also emboldens these criminals. Every delay sends a dangerous message: that queer lives are expendable, that crimes against us can be dragged through the courts until they fade from public attention, and that organised violence against our community can continue unchecked.

Such inaction corrodes public trust in the justice system and sends a chilling message that queer lives can be violated without consequence.

We call for:

1. The urgent prioritisation of the Grindr 7 case and an end to unnecessary postponements.
2. A coordinated SAPS investigation across provinces into syndicates targeting queer people through dating apps.
3. The immediate enactment of the Hate Crimes Act to ensure targeted crimes against the LGBTIQ+ community — such as those committed by the Grindr 7 — are recognised, prosecuted, and punished with the seriousness they deserve, alongside adequate protection and psychosocial support for victims.
4. Public awareness campaigns to alert queer communities about these targeted crimes and how to reduce risk while using online platforms.
5. Specialised training for SAPS officers, prosecutors, and court officials on LGBTIQ+ rights, safety, and trauma-informed handling of cases involving targeted violence – including the creation of dedicated liaison officers for queer-related crimes in every province.

Justice delayed is justice denied — and every delay places more queer people at risk. The Grindr 7 trial must be a turning point in dismantling organised violence against our community, and not just another date in a long chain of postponements.

Signed: Access Chapter 2; Forum for the Empowerment of Women; GALA Queer Archive; MambaOnline; OUT LGBT Well-Being; PFSAQ; Wits Activate

For more information: Lwazi Mazibuko: lwazimazibuko@pfsaq.org | 062 541 8360

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