Article: Lonwabo Mtyeku – GP News Media, Community Newsroom | 27 October 2025
Each year, Sandton in Johannesburg bursts into a kaleidoscope of colour, music, and love as the LGBTQ+ community and its allies come together for Johannesburg Pride — one of Africa’s most vibrant celebrations of identity, freedom, and visibility.
About the Event
Known simply as Joburg Pride, this annual march and festival unites LGBTQ+ people, families, and supporters from across Gauteng and beyond. It’s hosted under the banner of Pride of Africa, an organisation that champions equality and visibility across the continent.
The 2025 celebration took place in Sandton Central, between West Street and Rivonia Road, transforming the business hub into a lively sea of rainbow flags, music, and activism.
Theme and Meaning
This year’s theme — “Purely, Queerly, African” — captured the spirit of pride rooted in African culture and self-expression. The message was clear: being queer and African are not opposing identities, but beautifully intertwined ones.
As one participant shared, “Across Africa, many people still face violence and persecution just for being themselves. Here, at least, we have the space to live freely.”
While South Africa’s constitution protects LGBTQ+ rights, many parts of the continent still enforce laws that criminalise same-sex relationships — making Joburg Pride not only a celebration, but also a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality.
The Experience
The day began with morning festivities and built up to a dazzling parade through Sandton’s streets. Floats, drag performances, DJs, families, and activists filled the area with joy and solidarity.
Beyond the parade, festivalgoers enjoyed food stalls, live acts, art, and community spaces — blending protest and celebration into one vibrant expression of pride.
A Legacy of Activism
Johannesburg Pride began in 1990, organised by the Gay and Lesbian Organisation of the Witwatersrand (GLOW) — marking the first pride march in Africa.
Over three decades later, it has evolved into a movement that celebrates how far the LGBTQ+ community has come, while acknowledging how far there’s still to go.
Why It Matters
1. Visibility: Pride gives LGBTQ+ people a platform to be seen and celebrated.
2. Community: It builds belonging and solidarity among diverse groups.
3. Advocacy: Even with legal protection, societal acceptance still lags. Pride pushes that conversation forward.
4. Cultural Identity: The theme “Purely, Queerly, African” reminds the world that queerness has always existed within African history and culture.
5. Economic Impact: The event boosts tourism and the local economy while showcasing Johannesburg as a city of inclusivity.
Critiques and Challenges
While the celebration is joyful, some critics say Pride has become too commercialised, drifting from its activist roots. Others highlight issues of accessibility — noting that Sandton’s location and costs can exclude less privileged members of the community.
Safety and representation also remain top priorities, as organisers continue to make Pride a space for everyone — regardless of class, race, or gender identity.
Tips for Future Attendees
- Arrive early to enjoy the full experience.
- Wear something comfortable (and fabulous).
- Stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
- Be respectful — some participants may still be exploring their public identity.
- Plan your transport in advance — Sandton roads can get busy.
Looking Ahead
Johannesburg Pride continues to evolve, balancing celebration with advocacy and African identity with global solidarity. The 2025 theme proved that Pride is not just a party — it’s a statement of existence, resilience, and joy.
For anyone passionate about equality, diversity, or simply the beauty of humanity in all its colours, Joburg Pride remains a beacon of love and freedom on the African continent.