EMALAHLENI – Mpumalanga’s Health MEC, Sasekani Manzini, affirmed the commitment to provide non-discriminatory healthcare for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals (LGBTQI).
On Friday, May 17, 2024, Manzini visited Sinqobile Clinic in Emalahleni to raise awareness and show solidarity with the LGBTQI community as part of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, themed “No One Left Behind: Equality, Freedom, and Justice for All.”
“We will ensure that all our facilities respect and treat LGBTQ+Individuals without discrimination,” stated MEC Manzini. She urged clinic staff to uphold dignity, respect, and fairness in their treatment of all patients, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
The MEC emphasized the importance of inclusivity and respect for all individuals in healthcare settings. “We are proud to reaffirm Mpumalanga’s unwavering commitment to respecting the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. As a province, we stand firm in our dedication to ensuring inclusivity, equality and dignity for all members of our community. In line with this commitment, we are dedicated to upholding and enforcing the national policy guidelines on LGBTQ+ rights,” Manzini reiterated.
Various activities aimed at empowering the LGBTQ+ community about their rights were organized at the clinic. These included the creation of placards with messages such as “Stop Hate and Promote Love,” “Let’s Make the World Safer for Everyone,” “Support Without Judgment,” and “Love Always Wins.”
South Africa’s protection of LGBTI rights is enshrined in section 9 of the constitution, which prohibits discrimination based on sex, gender, or sexual orientation. This prohibition extends to both government and private entities. Parliament further reinforced these protections with the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act (PEPUDA) in 2000, establishing special equality courts to address discrimination by private parties.
The Employment Equity Act, 1998, and the Rental Housing Act, 1999, specifically prohibit discrimination in employment and housing. Additionally, the South African National Strategic Plan on HIV, TB, and STIs (2017 – 2022) includes strategies to address the unique needs of key populations affected by HIV, including men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender individuals.
“We recognize the importance of creating an environment where everyone feels safe, valued and respected,” stated the MEC. “Together, let us continue to work towards a future where every person, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can thrive without fear of discrimination or prejudice”.
