The sexiest show in SA, Sexpo is set to titillate and tease audiences with its sultry line-up of entertainers and exuberant Red Light Rio Interactive theme. However, Sexpo focuses on all aspects of sexuality, including sexual health education and the promotion of safe sex, and will be incorporating these elements into the array of stars, shows and exhibitions that it will be offering audiences from the 24th to the 27th of September 2015 at Gallagher Estate in Midrand. Given that South Africa is still struggling with a severe HIV epidemic, Sexpo will be working with the Gauteng Department of Health to offer HIV testing for the first time at the event.
Many of the acts and attractions at Sexpo are decadent and sensual, such as the opportunity to meet local and international adult film stars such as Penthouse Pets Misty Stone, Kenna James and Valentina Nappi; gorgeous dancers; pole-dancing shows and competitions; a spa offering massages; and six lounges that have a variety of exotic experiences behind their doors. However, Sexpo also strives to create an environment where people can learn more about sex and sexual health, so that they can enjoy and celebrate their sexuality in a positive way. With approximately 7 million people in South Africa living with HIV, 200 000 AIDS-related deaths per year and almost 400 000 new infections each year, Sexpo acknowledges that no conversation about sexuality and health is complete without mentioning how to prevent the spread of HIV. For this reason, Sexpo is pleased to welcome the Gauteng Department of Health to this year’s show, where they will be doing free HIV counselling and testing for Sexpo attendees. The Department of Health stand will conduct tests and provide people with information regarding the prevention and treatment of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. In addition, Dr Montoedi from the Gauteng DoH will be speaking at Sexpo about “the importance of HIV testing for couples, and linking to care and support”. This will happen on Friday the 25th September at 18h20.
According to Christel McMahon, General Manager of Sexpo, “Sexpo brings people’s fantasies to life with all of our fantastic shows and entertainers, but we are also aware of the reality: that there can be dangers associated with sex. As part of our mandate to promote safe and healthy sexual practices, we are thrilled to host the Gauteng Department of Health and support their drive to reach out to the public regarding HIV education and testing.” Sexpo is also sponsored by the South African Film and Publications Board, who do a significant amount of work around the prevention of child trafficking and the production and distribution of child pornography. For example, Sexpo will be strict in enforcing their no under-18s age restriction, given the adult nature of the expo.
For more information on what there is to see and do at Sexpo this year, including incredible acts, fun competitions and fabulous shopping opportunities, go to www.sexpo.co.za. Tickets are R280 per person and are available at Computicket. For queries related to the Gauteng Department of Health’s decision to participate in Sexpo, please contact Steve Mabona, the Department Spokesperson, on 072 574 3860.
Being smart about sexual health: Sexpo gets serious about HIV at their 2015 show
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