In a bold move to advance equality and strengthen human rights protections, Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Andries Nel, and Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Steve Letsike, will co-chair a pivotal media roundtable on South Africa’s National SOGIESC Strategy (2023–2027). The event is scheduled for Friday, 16 May 2025, at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) headquarters in Pretoria.
By Noko Mashilo
This high-level engagement forms part of South Africa’s observance of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT), which takes place annually on 17 May. The day serves as a global call to action against discrimination and violence directed at individuals of diverse Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC).
The roundtable will spotlight the revised National Intervention Strategy on SOGIESC—a critical blueprint for South Africa’s multi-sectoral approach to combating exclusion, discrimination, and human rights violations endured by LGBTQI+ communities.
The 2025 IDAHOBIT theme, “The Power of Communities,” echoes throughout the roundtable’s agenda.
It aims to elevate the voices of grassroots leaders and civil society actors who play an essential role in shaping inclusive, rights-based solutions.
Key objectives of the roundtable include:
- Enhancing public awareness and understanding of the National Intervention Strategy and its implementation pillars;
- Creating an inclusive platform for dialogue among government, media, civil society, and affected communities;
- And promoting responsible and empowering media coverage that challenges stigma and fosters national solidarity.
“This roundtable is not just a policy discussion—it is a reaffirmation of our constitutional values of dignity, equality, and non-discrimination,” said Deputy Minister Letsike. “We must work hand in hand with communities to build a safer, more just society for everyone, regardless of how they identify or whom they love.”
Media representatives are encouraged to attend and contribute to shaping narratives that reflect South Africa’s commitment to human rights for all.
