Many of those on the march said they still faced stigma and persecution and lived their lives in a state of fear. No crowds lined the pavements, though a few passing cars sounded their horns in support.ĭespite the celebration, most of those taking part wore masks, not because of Covid-19 but for fear of revealing their identities in a country where a conviction for homosexuality can lead to 14 years in jail for men and five for women. They marched largely alone through quiet streets. Marchers donned shirts with rainbow colours and emblazoned with words such as “embracing our queerness”, “pride unites world”, “love first” and “Malawi is for us too”, as they danced and chanted “Viva LGBTI!”. I’m lucky that I have a loving family which accepted me the way I am.” I have been through a lot, including insults and discrimination.
“To be a gay in Malawi is tough and it takes a lot of guts to be open like I am. “I feel so happy to be part of this,” he said. Those on the streets of Lilongwe on Saturday, however, expressed joy that in a year during which events had been cancelled across the world, their parade was at last taking place during annual Pride month.Īndreas, 29, said it was a huge moment for his community as he danced to the music and raised a placard above his head.
