Homosexuality is when a person feels romantically and sexually attracted to people of the same sex. It is accepted and legal in other countries in the world. In Zimbabwe and other some other African countries, however it is socially not acceptable. In Zimbabwe, the law only recognises marriage between a man and a woman.

Are there any health risks in being gay?
Men who have sex with men (MSM) have much higher rates of HIV than men who don’t. But any sexual intercourse, gay or straight, carries a risk of HIV transmission if you are not using condoms correctly. Unprotected anal sex is the riskiest sex for HIV transmission. Many gay men marry and have children. Most still have same-sex relationships in secret, and they may also pass HIV onto their wives.

It is a good policy to treat everyone — regardless of their sexual orientation — with respect and dignity. Remember all people have the same human rights. Respect others rights as you expect them to respect yours.

Think you or a friend could be gay? Read more below.