Johannesburg Clinic for Gay and Bi Men Launched in Rosebank

The Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, has inaugurated OUT LGBT Well-being’s Engage Men’s Health (EMH) clinic in Rosebank, Johannesburg.

The free sexual health clinic serves the needs of gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM) and was aptly launched on 17 May, the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT).

Funded by PEPFAR through USAID, the EMH clinic offers a comprehensive range of free HIV and STI prevention and treatment services, ensuring that clients receive equitable, stigma-free, and safe access to healthcare.

A Clinic and Community Space

EMH is a project of OUT-LGBT Well-being, the second-oldest LGBTQ+ NGO in South Africa. OUT said that the clinic’s opening on IDAHOBIT, underscored its commitment to combating the violence and discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community.

“The EMH project fills a critical gap in healthcare provision by providing for the unique needs of gay men and other MSM who are at higher risk of HIV but often face barriers to accessing healthcare due to discrimination and stigma,” commented Dawie Nel, Executive Director of OUT, in a statement.

Launched in 2019, the Engage Men’s Health clinic moved from its original Melville location to the more accessible site in Rosebank. This new facility is also a community space offering additional services such as mental health support with an in-house social worker and harm reduction programmes.

The Rosebank clinic will also operate two new smaller clinic locations in the Johannesburg Health District, one in Braamfontein and the other in Soweto – both set to launch in the coming weeks.

A Beacon of Hope

“[The clinic] is not just a medical centre, it is a profound statement that everyone deserves access to compassionate and comprehensive healthcare. And it underscores our belief in accessible, stigma-free healthcare environments that empower individuals and strengthen communities,” said MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko at the launch.

The launch event featured spirited performances by the Johannesburg Queer Chorus and drag performer Labelz D’ Glamour and saw the presence of activists, stakeholders and social media influencers such as Thami Dish.

“This clinic symbolises a beacon of hope, a sanctuary where individuals and community groups can seek care without fear of discrimination or prejudice, and it embodies our shared commitment to foster a healthier and more inclusive Johannesburg,” asserted Anita Sampson, Deputy Director of the Bilateral Health Office at USAID Southern Africa.

Located at 23 Glenhove Road, Melrose Estate, Johannesburg, the Engage Men’s Health clinic offers free and friendly services to gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, Monday to Saturday.

For more information or to make an appointment, WhatsApp 082 607 1686 or visit www.engagemenshealth.org.za.