Ngochani is a slang term used in Zimbabwe to describe people who are gay or belong to the LGBTQ+ community. The word originates from local street language and has often been used in a derogatory or mocking manner. Many young people have heard it used in schools, on social media, and in neighborhoods, sometimes as a joke and sometimes as a serious insult.
In Zimbabwe, conversations around sexuality and gender can get heated quickly. The country has laws that do not support same-sex relationships, and society generally holds very traditional views. People who are called ngochani can face a tough time. They might get bullied at school, lose friends, or even struggle to find work because of the stigma attached to this label.
Despite all the challenges, there are people in Zimbabwe who want things to change. Some youth groups and activists speak up about respect and equal treatment. They believe everyone should have the freedom to be who they are, without fear or hate. These voices are not always loud, but they are growing stronger, especially in cities where young people are more connected through the internet.
Older generations often adhere to the ideas they learned growing up, but younger people sometimes challenge these notions. They use social media to share their stories and find support from others who have had similar experiences. Some people use the word ngochani as a badge of pride, turning the insult into a source of strength.
Zimbabwe is still a place where being open about sexuality is risky. Things are slowly changing as more people begin to talk openly. The journey toward acceptance and respect for everyone, regardless of how they identify, is still ongoing.
In Zimbabwe, conversations around sexuality and gender can get heated quickly. The country has laws that do not support same-sex relationships, and society generally holds very traditional views. People who are called ngochani can face a tough time. They might get bullied at school, lose friends, or even struggle to find work because of the stigma attached to this label.
Despite all the challenges, there are people in Zimbabwe who want things to change. Some youth groups and activists speak up about respect and equal treatment. They believe everyone should have the freedom to be who they are, without fear or hate. These voices are not always loud, but they are growing stronger, especially in cities where young people are more connected through the internet.
Older generations often adhere to the ideas they learned growing up, but younger people sometimes challenge these notions. They use social media to share their stories and find support from others who have had similar experiences. Some people use the word ngochani as a badge of pride, turning the insult into a source of strength.
Zimbabwe is still a place where being open about sexuality is risky. Things are slowly changing as more people begin to talk openly. The journey toward acceptance and respect for everyone, regardless of how they identify, is still ongoing.
