As we commemorate Human Rights Day on 10 December, this article looks at how Western-influenced right-wing movements are gaining traction in Africa and are using so-called “traditional family values” to undermine sexual and reproductive health rights and LGBTQIA+ rights.

On 29 September 2025, Ibis Reproductive Health , in partnership with Section27 , Soul City Institute , MB Teen Lifestyle , Accountability International , Ipas Africa Southern Region , and Tiko , commemorated International Safe Abortion Day (ISAD) with an Imbizo held at The Forge in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. A Zulu term, imbizo, refers to a traditional community gathering organized by a traditional leader or chief to resolve community issues and build consensus. This year’s Imbizo aimed to...

This piece was co-authored by Duduetsang Mmeti , who is a Senior Communications Manager, and Sesona Buyeye , who is a Communications...