The MenEngage Eswatini, in collaboration with the In-Country Secretariat Health Plus 4 Men, organised and executed an advocacy stall at the annual Bushfire Festival, a popular cultural event that took place from May 31 to June 2, 2024, in Manzini, eSwatini. The objective of the advocacy stall was to actively involve festival attendees in discussions surrounding critical issues such as HIV, the inclusion of key populations, and the pressing matter of human trafficking, particularly examining how these issues intersect and impact one another. These engagements were intentionally centred around the Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on ensuring good health and well-being for all individuals within communities.
Through interactive displays, informative materials, and engaging discussions, the advocacy stall sought to raise awareness, provoke thought, and inspire action towards addressing these complex challenges in an integrated and holistic manner. By fostering dialogue and promoting informed decision-making among festival goers, the advocacy stall aimed to contribute to a more informed and empowered society that actively works towards achieving positive health outcomes and social justice for all.
Over the course of the three days, the stall dedicated to raising awareness and promoting dialogue within the LGBTIQ+ community successfully engaged with a diverse group of players from all corners of the globe. These interactions served as a platform for participants to share their insights and best practices on various interventions, drawing from their unique experiences and perspectives in their own countries. As a result, there was a tangible exchange of valuable information and strategies, with many players offering their contact information for continued discussions and collaboration in the future.
As part of the advocacy efforts, a Unity Pride Parade was organised, serving as a powerful symbol of solidarity and support for the rights and visibility of the LGBTIQ+ community. The parade attracted festival goers and wider public, raising awareness and advocating for inclusivity and acceptance.
“Since 2020, the bushfire festival has moved from being only a music festival into incorporating advocacy around gender equality, climate change and gender justice. The issue of LGBTQIA+ is not only an issue for Eswatini but a global challenge, taking the Pride to the bushfire was to ensure that there is a continued conversation on ensuring the protection for the rights of all people. Furthermore, it was imperative that there is time to share learnings from other players from across the globe. The parade was also a platform for creating allyship with the LGBTQIA+ Community, says MenEngage eSwatini Country Coordinator, Bonginkosi Ndlangamandla.
It was encouraging to see the interest and enthusiasm displayed by partners from neighbouring nations, including South Africa, Mozambique, Botswana, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Zambia. Their willingness to explore potential partnerships with local players opened new opportunities for long-term collaboration and the possibility of addressing common issues impacting the LGBTIQ+ community in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. This could lead to joint initiatives and projects that positively impact the lives of individuals within the community.
Overall, these events and interactions at the festival played a crucial role in fostering a sense of unity and collaboration among individuals and organisations dedicated to advancing the rights and well-being of the LGBTIQ+ community.