Rehoboth, Namibia, hosted its first Pride event in September, marking a significant milestone for the LGBTQI+ community. The event, organised by MPower Community Trust, featured a Pride Village where participants could access health information and services, as well as human-rights and psychosocial support. This initiative aimed to bring essential services closer to the community, promoting visibility and accessibility.
Transgender woman Raun Strauss attended the event and highlighted the importance of visibility for the LGBTQI+ community. She noted that having HIV testing available at the event helped reduce some of the barriers people may experience when seeking services at health facilities. This approach enabled individuals to access services in a supportive and community-friendly setting.
The event included a Women's Corner, organised in partnership with the Women's Leadership Centre, where women from diverse backgrounds could share their experiences and support one another. Human-rights information was also made available, including information on support and assistance for people experiencing discrimination, violence or other rights violations.
Events project manager Hakeem Noabeb explained that the HIV testing services were provided through a collaboration between MPower Community Trust and the Walvis Bay Corridor Group. The approach was intended to create an environment where people could access services without fear of stigma or discrimination. The event was held under the theme 'Proudly Rehoboth, Proudly Namibian, Proudly Me'.
Despite some challenges, including the unavailability of planned police support for the walk, organisers and community members proceeded with the activity. The event brought together LGBTQI+ people, allies, community members, civil society organisations, and service providers. This gathering demonstrated the value of community-led approaches to health, human rights, and inclusion.
MPower Community Trust stated that the event formed part of their programme under the Marang Southern Africa LGBTQI+ Fund, which supports community-rooted initiatives focused on human rights, visibility, safe spaces, psychosocial support, and advocacy. The programme is being implemented at Rehoboth and Gobabis from August 2026 to August 2027.
The Rehoboth Pride event showcased the importance of community-led initiatives in promoting health, human rights, and inclusion. By providing essential services and support, the event helped break down barriers and increase accessibility for the LGBTQI+ community.
Key points
- The event provided HIV testing services, reducing barriers to access for the LGBTQI+ community.
- The event promoted visibility and accessibility for the LGBTQI+ community, increasing awareness and support.
- The programme is part of the Marang Southern Africa LGBTQI+ Fund, supporting community-rooted initiatives focused on human rights and advocacy.
