MSM (men who have sex with men) is a hot discussion point in Africa. For reasons that are not sexy- MSM are contracting HIV/AIDS at an alarming rate. especially young MSM, ages 15- 24 years old. What does this mean?
It means that a new sexual identity , namely MSM , must be recognised. Once recognised with tolerance MSM can be afforded the same health care as any other man. And this will include HIV/AIDS/STI prevention tools. MSM are stigmatised in black townships, amongst black men.
They are anecdotally referred to as "after 9's" as these are men who are married, living self identified heterosexual lives yet have sex with men - whenever . So after 9's will slip away from their families to meet up with boys or other men for sex. Unfortunately sex tends to be associated with alcohol and/or recreational drug use which means less likely that a condom will be used.
In USA it is knowns as the "downlow" - and as long as it remains stigmatised behavior among men, women who are in their beds are at an alarmingly high risk for infection.
If you are a MSM I urge you to get health care and information. If you are a woman who suspects her man is a MSM ensure you know your status and and book a therapy session for you and your man to have earnest, honest conversation.
Let's not allow stigma, culture, myths and fear continue to cause sexual harm to our people.
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