Kakuma's Block 13 LGBTQIA+ Community - Latest News

IN SOLIDARITY TO TRANS REFUGEES IN EAST AFRICA.

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 02:08:20 GMT

IN SOLIDARITY TO TRANS REFUGEES IN EAST AFRICA.

As we celebrate Transgender Day of Visibility, 2025, I want to take a moment to highlight a painful reality that often goes unnoticed—the horrific situation of transgender individuals who flee their home countries seeking safety, only to find themselves trapped in yet another cycle of persecution and neglect.

Many transgender refugees escape their countries due to extreme violence, discrimination, and even threats to their lives. They flee with the hope of finding protection in nations that have signed international agreements to safeguard asylum seekers. However, upon arrival, they are met with further marginalization—not just from host governments but also from human rights organizations like UNHCR, which are meant to protect them.

In refugee camps, where they are placed as a form of “protection,” transgender individuals often face severe discrimination, harassment, and even torture. Transphobia runs deep, and instead of being safe, they are exposed to the same dangers they tried to escape. Many are left with no choice but to flee once again—this time from the very camps meant to shield them.

With limited options, some transgender refugees seek safety in other countries, even those that are unstable or engulfed in war. But no matter where they go, the cycle of suffering continues—rejected, unprotected, and forced to endure the same violence they had hoped to leave behind.

Visibility must go beyond celebration; it must be a call to action. The international community must recognize the urgent need for real protection for transgender refugees—protection that does not merely place them in unsafe environments but ensures their dignity, security, and right to live without fear.

To all transgender refugees struggling to survive, I see you. We see you. Your fight is not invisible. And we will continue to speak out until the world listens.

Cyara Kiara, Transgender womxn and Human Rights Defender

A Global Pandemic That Needs A Global Input

Wed, 01 May 2024 01:06:31 GMT

The non binary world is being hit from all sides...

The non binary world is being hit from all sides. The Transgender community, kids or adults are screaming for possible solutions; and this is happening entirely in all parts of the world.

From even those countries and places we think that are championing human rights for all. This is no longer a battle for some and a walk over for the rest.

This is not a worry to Africa or Asia, Europe or the North Americans. It's a world pandemic that needs a uniformed approach.

Let's take a quick look at what is happening in Africa. Anti-homosexuality laws are being drafted, billed and passed by lots of African states now. These are laws that are targeting a whole group of homosexuals on the continent regardless of your status in the country.

You don't have to be a citizen of a certain African state to feel the crueles of this. However, being present as a visitor, tourist, student, Refugee or asylum seeker in such a country makes you criminalised immediately as long as you identify as gay.

Ohhh yes, this becomes terribly bad when it gets to the transgender and or the non binary. Being so easily spotted, targeted and physically identified makes us more prey to this wrath more than ever.

Africa turning her back against the her own, against her children in the name of cultural norms and heritage, religion, and social norms is a huge dismay and disappointment. Our legislators using us to fight, discriminate and kill among our selves only makes the entire world not safe for anyone to stay in harmony.

Moreover, getting displaced on the very continent that raised you or where you belong for simply identifying differently or believing in what your government has marked and labelled as unjust.

This is generally why we are seeing a lot of queer becoming refugees in different parts of the world and the most heartbreaking is the fact that most are still getting displaced on the very same continent that's hunting them from all sides.

These humans are left with a sole option of seeking asylum in neighbouring countries from their home countries whenever the situation gets unsafe for them.

Bad enough, they only find themselves in situations similar to what they are running from their home countries simply because the new trend on the continent is to eliminate homosexuality, perpetuated directly from governments, legislatures, community and religious leaders.

All these are highly respected entities in the African setting making it easy for all country men and women believe that identifying as queer, as gay, as non binary, as transgender is the leading and only problem that Africa has and keeping us in all sorts of challenges faced by the world like global warming, outbreaks of epidemics, corruption, hunger, and alot more.

This brings us to a close look of what's happening in Asia, Europe, Australia and North America. Not underlooking even those places that everyone could get so proud of waving the human rights flag higher amongst all. We are all facing injustices in different perspectives of life.

We all need a uniform voice to put a stop to this kind of growing insanity. This isn't a life we chose for ourselves but rather it's a way of living that's simply being dictated over us by those we trusted with power, trust and hope.

They're starving, in exile, and some others are burning out in their closets.

As mentioned earlier, it's not a battle for Africa but a battle for every human being on the planet because indeed injustice here is injustice everywhere.

Curious about what you can do, don't hesitate checking out our Take Action button on our website here for information.

Good day...✌️��️‍⚧️��️‍��

A Report about the current situation in Kakuma Refugee Camp LGBTQ Refugee Community

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 09:00:15 GMT

A Report about the current situation in Kakuma Refugee Camp LGBTQ Refugee Community

On 1st of October, the LGBTQ refugee representative team in Kakuma refugee camp wrote to UNHCR requesting for a dialogue, to come up with solutions to challenges that the LGBTQ refugee community in Kakuma are facing.

According to UNHCR’s first response via email (screenshots of emails attached below as pictures), they were ready to proceed with the dialogue but on 8th October 2023, UNHCR informed us through an email that they weren't ready to have a meeting because government officials weren't available yet.

However, on date 10th December 2023, a representative team from LGBTQ refugees again reached out to UNHCR with a petition (attached below as a picture) with several requests and issues, plus a request of a dialogue still. And after several times of consecutive conversation with them (UNHCR), they came up with a date 19th December 2023 for the dialogue.

By 9:00 am, the meeting had started at UNHCR field post office 4 and ended at 12:00 pm.

ATTENDEES.

1. UNHCR - United Nations High Commission for Refugees

2. DRS - Department of Refugee Services

3. LGBTQ REFUGEES REPRESENTATIVES (30)

4. WORLD VISION

5. WORLD FOOD PROGRAM (WFP)

1. A guy from UNHCR (moderator) made an introduction. He welcomed all the attendees and allowed all refugee representatives to introduce themselves first and then followed up by the rest of the officials.

2. He then asked Albert one of the representative of LGBTQ refugees in the meeting to read the petition that was presented by lgbtiq refugees. (the petition is attached as a picture below).

3. Each organisation started reacting to the points in the petition respective of their organisational/office responsibilities, duties and mandates.

4. It was DRS that reacted first to issues raised because RSD (Refugee Status Determination) interview was the first point by Beverly. He reacted to a point of, "what criteria are they using right now to carry out RSD? This is because the system of first come first serve isn't so, it exhibits alot of discrimination of queer asylum seekers and it's so corrupt."

He responded that in 2021, they were only working on asylum seekers who arrived in 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 and below.

In 2023 August, they started interviewing each and everyone randomly because they had cleared up all the rest of the other years and besides, they had been directed by Nairobi Commissioner office to do so. On the same issue, he gave an excuse of interpreters as another reason for delay in their service delivery.

He addressed the issue of delayed mandates and decisions, (after the RSD, a person has to be notified of the decision within a few months and given a mandate, or able to appeal if they're rejected) by saying that those who did RSD in 2021, 2020, 2019 and below need to get their decisions, and on this matter, a letter has already been issued to the government commissioner's office in Nairobi requesting him to issue these decisions earlier next year, 2024. However, he made an excuse of the change of system (from RAS- Refugee Affairs Secretariat to DRS) and employees, all delayed most of this work, including decisions. He said that by July 2024, all mandates/decisions will be out.

Then the camp manager reacted to the point of not registering new queer arrivals. Even though this was being denied by the camp manager and his deputy, they couldn't escape it because we had asylum seekers from Kaloboyei settlement reception centre in this same meeting who haven't been registered because they are queer simply because the Kenyan law doesn't allow us now.

"The norms and culture in Kenya doesn't allow homosexuality, we can't host you anymore." The camp manager said.

Refugees pressed him to make him self clear.

"He said that since the government, Parliament and President are against queer refugees, plus homosexuality, his office therefore can't help us too." the camp manager added.

What they can offer is allowing us being in the camp but without anything moving on like registration, RSD interviews or even resettlements. Currently, a certain Senator tabled an issue in parliament asking why Kenya is welcoming queer refugees yet homosexuality is against the country norms, constitution and culture." The camp manager added.

He added that nothing much we should expect because after all even our country doesn't want us anymore. We are on our own.

Geofrey, a gay refugee representative asked about the delay in getting us refugee status which has stunted our ambitions and goals in education and work plus international protection (resettlement).

Camp manager said that everyone is free to go whenever they want to. No one is holding us back in the camp, and if anyone wants to go to Mombasa for swimming, he can issue a movement pass for this. He added that, "frankly, we don't want any of you here. If our president doesn't like you, then why us?"

UNHCR informed us that DRS wanted to go and that they need to leave because of other commitments.

About the new system of booking for RSDs on the machine automatically, the corruption in the booking system, the unconfidentiality during about RSDs, Inna (a UNHCR employee) talked about a group of 12 lgbtiq refugees who went to the camp managers office (Kasili Mutambo) and he granted/permitted them with RSDs though no one is sure about how and why he ended up blessing these 12 people to do their interviews after meeting him privately in his office. Additionally, Inna confirmed that some people in the camp among the LGBTQ refugees get to know about our interviews, something that's contrary to their privacy regulations.

The camp manager said that all others who haven't done RSD interviews are going to do them earlier next year. He concluded that those with no manifests, will never be registered at all because they are no longer welcoming lgbtiq asylum cases anymore in Kenya.

On the issue of queer people who haven't been registered and have no manifests, one UNHCR guy was concerned about it. He mentioned to DRS that if a person has no manifest (not registered by the government), UNHCR’s protection is so difficult for them. He ended up saying that it would need them (UNHCR) to write to the government commissioner in Nairobi for answers and solutions about not registering lgbtiq new arriving cases.

Ben, one of the LGBTQ refugee representatives talked about the fact that Kenya is still bragging about being the only country in East Africa welcoming queer refugees, which is wrong at this time. This is evident on several information online. He added that they need to change all that so as no more queer people fall in this trap again like us. We came to Kenya hoping that since they are the only country in the region welcoming lgbtiq people fleeing their countries. No one reacted to this issue though.

Refugees stressed government officials with inquisitive questions like, “what have you been doing to support lgbtiq refugees for all the past years that your now coming out proudly chasing us out of your country with no help!!?”

The camp manager said that they are currently having an ongoing program to help all refugees and asylum seekers where they are shifting from refugee camps to settlements in a program named Shirika plan, that we the LGBTQ refugees also need to embrace this program too.

He was immediately informed by refugees in the meeting that lgbtiq refugees can't integrate in Kenya according to the Shirika plan because it would only expose us and put our lives to more danger. The Shirika plan is not designed enough to favour lgbtiq refugees therefore, we can't rely on it at all.

At this point, Department of Refugee Services (DRS), World vision and WFP had to leave the meeting and we remained back with UNHCR in the meeting.

Mable, a lesbian and a representative of LGBTQ refugees asked, "now that the government has shown their stand, then what do you have for us as UNHCR. This is because, we can't go back to our home countries, and still even our asylum government Kenya has failed to protect us: the only things we are getting here is dreadful conversion therapies, physical and verbal attacks even from police, host & refugee communities.

No one from UNHCR reacted to this.

John, a gay refugee representative asked if UNHCR can take lgbtiq refugees in another country temporarily as they are looking for another destinations or solutions, but still, no one replied to this.

However, what they said was that the only solution are the complementary path ways ( refugee private sponsorships/resettlements) and that they are only willing to help anyone with private sponsorships and with only your country passport. UNHCR is ready to help us go back to Uganda to get a passport if we don't have any or expired and if anyone is interested in getting them.

Everyone left the meeting heart broken, hopeless, disappointed because even refugee private sponsorship organisations like Rainbow Railroad are taking so long to help. Other refugees are going to South Sudan yet even its costly and risky security wise. This follows the fact that a group of almost 25 queer refugees who had been stuck in Kakuma refugee camp for years looked for their way to South Sudan in early 2022 and later in 2024, they have all been resettled to USA.

Our hope is no where, we are doomed and the only option we have right now is suicide and hunging our selves.

PRIDE 2023 IN KAKUMA REFUGEE CAMP

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 02:14:46 GMT

It wasn't easy to come up with a last resolution of considering it worth to hold, celebrate and organise Pride celebrations in Kakuma refugee camp.

In most places of the planet, any kind of queer gather ups are manipulated into something illegal and that's a threat to the place's culture and tradition, children morals and amongst others.

Whereas in other parts of the world, Pride celebrations are no longer looked at such a perspective. They're rather considered as any other celebrations by any other group of people who we share the same world, same blood color, humanity and freedom and Equality. They ain't considered to be a threat to anyone by anyone.

In Kakuma refugee camp, the most recent queer celebrations are Idahobit 2021 and now history was made in June 2023 when the entire queer refugee community teamed up and organised very beautiful celebrations of Pride year 2023.

In places where its freedom to celebrate Pride right now, it didn't come on a silver plate, it came with violations as it was a riot, hate speech and crimes, and so much homophobic violations. Currently, most of such places can now celebrate Pride without fear of discrimination, hate violences, and homophobia at all. This is what should triumph around the world.

When it comes to lgbtiq people living in Kenya and any other places around the world where lgbtiq are being hosted as refugees and asylum seekers, they shouldn't be denied of their freedom.

The fact that the host country allowed them in to claim asylum basing on their gender identities and expressions, it should be maintained to allow these people find it free and safe to enjoy their asylum therefore, and this is the sole reason why we the LGBTQ refugees in Kakuma refugee camp noticed it significant to organise and celebrate Pride.

Additionally, a need to spare time and such opportunities to cherish the possibilities of gather ups, fun and joy amidst several violations, discriminations, persecutions, hatred and targets, without trampling on any other person's freedom or rights can't be taken lightly. Everyone in the world needs a chance to celebrate in whichever way that's harmless to the other, this maintened, none of it has to be termed a threat or illegal at all.

Celebrating Pride, having freedom and full rights of equality to everyone all over the world remains the only reason why everyone needs to be an advocate in one way or another.

We continue to send a very kind request and reminder to anyone out their making laws that go upto the extent of criminalising the existance of someone, Rainbow flags, celebrations, that these laws don't only end up in the constitution gazettes but they move to the ground, in communities and perpetuate violence against a certain minority group of people that always have to end up with loss of lives, family disunity and neglect, trauma and depression, among others.

Humanity being put first during the draft of such bills and laws, those are some of the things that must cross your mind.

These are our brothers, sisters, friends, mothers, kids who are being exposed and put at risk to all this extent and we should seek for room to cause a stop to them, not room for a stir up.

Kakuma Not Yet Safe for LGBTQI refugees

Fri, 26 May 2023 06:42:46 GMT

Amnesty International Kenya writes a new report on safety issues in Kakuma for LGBTQI refugees

The National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (NGLHRC) and Amnesty International have published a joint report on the experiences of LGBTI refugees living in Kakuma, Kenya. They call this an extremely dangerous situation of hate crimes, discrimination and other human rights violations.

The findings of the report show that "LGBTI asylum seekers and refugees in Kenya face intersectional discrimination and violence based on their identity as asylum seekers or refugees and their sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC). They experience discriminatory practices and homophobic and transphobic attitudes from government officials, the police and other service providers, in a social climate characterised by prejudice and discrimination."

It includes testimonials from many LGBTI people living in the camp. Esther and Winnie, two lesbians living in Kakuma and Sharon, a transgender woman, who have bravely shared their stories of discrimination and violence, among many others.

The report describes hate crimes occurring at an 'alarming rate'.

Circumstances covered include:

* Threat of the camp closures and lack of durable solutions

* The management of the camp

* Kenyan refugees legislation

* Registration issues

* Delayed refugee status determination and its consequences

* Consequences of the 2021 Refugees Act

* Violent attacks, threats and intimidation

* Impunity for perpetrators of hate crimes

* Intimidation of Human Rights Defenders

* Pervasive Discrimination and Abuses in the Camp

* Dangerous Camp, Dangerous Self-Protection Strategies

* Temporary Relocation to Nairobi

* Obstacles to Resettlement

* National and International Legal Framework

Read the blog post here from Amnesty International, Kenya and click here to read the full report.

Uganda's New Anti-Gay Bill

Thu, 25 May 2023 08:06:51 GMT

Signed or not, the anti-homosexuality bill is already a nightmare

"Signed or not, the anti-homosexuality bill, 2023 in Uganda is already a nightmare to queer communities in the country................." Shifra argued, a Ugandan human rights defender in Kakuma refugee camp, Kenya

When the parliament of Uganda decided to take on a legislative obligation of " protecting" the African culture with a law to tighten the criminalisation of same sex acts in the country, they knew the harm in trying to do so. They knew what it that as Parliament, they're empowering a country to attack a specific minority group of citizens.

They were well knowledgeable about the fact that the law would mean more exposure to HIV/Aids, and the fight to the virus would be jeopardised all because of the bill. However, all this didn't give Ugandan Parliament any second thought of coming to a stop.

This cruel bill was originally passed on 21 March 2023 and would have made identifying as LGBTQ+ a criminal offence if Uganda's President Museveni signs it into law.

However much he refused to sign it and instead returned it to parliament with recommended changes like making a difference between practicing in homosexuality and identifying as LGBTQ+/queer.

This new version of the law would no longer criminalise people for identifying as a member of the queer community but it proposes to jail anyone up to 20 years for advocating, defending or promoting LGBTQ+ rights in the country.

It further convicts anyone who practices “attempted aggravated homosexuality” and could be jailed up to 14 years, while those found guilty of “attempted homosexuality” would be put behind bars for 10 full years.

The law retains the DEATH PENALTY for those charged with “aggravated homosexuality".

"Aggravated homosexuality", according to the Ugandan Parliament is where sexual relations involve those who are living with HIV, minors and other categories of vulnerable people.

The cruelty exposed by a country government to their citizens in such a manner has caused a very large influx of LGBTQ individuals becoming refugees and displaced in other countries, running from their country, human rights defenders/advocates fleeing for their lives in neighbouring countries and this is Kenya.

Due to the already existing refugee laws in Kenya, all people seeking asylum in the country have to reside in refugee camps/settlements despite protection needs. This leaves Kakuma, Kaloboyei settlement and daadad refugee camp as the only places in Kenya for people seeking asylum due to their gender identities and sexual orientations to stay as well.

Bad enough, it's within these designated areas that we as LGBTQ refugees are facing serious dire homophobia, no protection, sexual, physical, emotional violences, police brutalities, hate crimes and speech.

In a nut shell, the anti-homosexuality Bill in Uganda is still a reason for many to leave Uganda as their last option into Kenya. Victims are already seeking asylum even when the bill isn't signed into law.

Collectively, we need to act, save, stand in solidarity and support lgbtiq refugee community in Kenya. To do this, please feel free to look for the ACTION BUTTON here on our website, there are lots of ways for you to help.

Homosexuality is a Human Right

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 02:27:11 GMT

Homosexuality is not taught... it's inside a person.

Hi, everyone. My name is Shifra. I'm from Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya. And my pronouns are she/hers.

I'm here to talk about the unfair law/bill that was made by the Ugandan government against homosexuality. It has been illegal to be a homosexual in Uganda. But the law that has been made, it is more tight than ever. It is a threat to the gay community and entire region near Uganda.

This law was made by the government and it is going to be approved by the president of Uganda. The public is also supporting this bill. And some of them say that it is not even fair enough. They need to do a mob justice to anyone caught practicing homosexuality.

Homosexuality, what I want to inform the world, is not taught, but it is inside a person. That's what a person is. It is not taught or told to do so. That's what a person decides. And Ugandans should be aware that homosexuality is a human right and they need to respect to that.

Please take action by emailing your government here .

The Untold story of 3rd February 2023

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 00:22:45 GMT

We refute allegations that we were protesting

The LGBTQ community in Kakuma refugee camp would like to inform the world and all those concerned of the long pending lgbtiq refugee crisis in the place about UNHCR's statement in conjunction to what happened on 3rd February 2023 during food distribution.

We refute allegations that we were demonstrating on grounds of not being given food on time. As usual, we appeared at ration centre in a number of 100+ to collect food (the reason why we go to ration centres in such a big number at once is to ensure our safety from any kind of homophobic violence during our way to and from the centre plus even during food collection. We feel safe when we are in a group).

We peacefully asked to be served food earlier enough because the more we were standing in the long que with other refugees, the more we were being stoned and beaten already. We tried to explain and complain this condition of violence against us from refugees to the security team at ration centre but they kept on never to mind about the matter. We kept on pleading that we needed to get food earlier and leave, no one likes to be beaten or stoned simply because they are picking up "2 kgs of maize grains for a month". Our request was not in any way connected to any of us being special from other refugees, but it was a measure that perhaps if taken, our lives could be saved from the violence we were facing back in the long que, that the security team wasn't even willing to attend to and understand or resolve.

We were rather made to keep waiting, as we were being told to come back on our own special day, or arrangement just like the UNHCR statement says. This was something we felt it was stigmatising us and it wasn't right. We are not special among other refugees to be given a day or arrangement of collecting food. However much we believe that we are vulnerable, it doesn't make us special to the extent of having food on a special arrangement. Just like any other vulnerable group of people in the camp like expecting mothers, children, people with disabilities who pick up food without being given their specific allocated day, we the LGBTQ shouldn't be treated in any way other than that. We have to associate with the rest of the community.

And besides, if UNHCR believes we can live in harmony with the camp community as they keep on alleging, why would they again need to allocate a day for us to pick up food, a day when no one else will be at ration centre? UNHCR is doing community sensatisations where they are teaching people to stop being homophobic. We don't want to think that this is already failing (after all we already complained about it that it's only exposing us, increasing our risks of violence and its never a durable solution).

Why would they need to give us a day of coming back to pick up food if the community loves us and if perhaps the sensitisations are working?

We therefore believe that the fact that they were suggesting a day for us to pick food, it's something that was to stigmatise us. That's why we didn't accept it. We kept on standing in the line, waiting for them to give us food like anyone else.

Unfortunately, one police officer beat one gay man. This sparkled everything and we immediately asked the police to take him to the hospital plus condemning police brutality. In response, the police tear gased us and the community continued throwing stones to us, badly.

This caused other lgbtiq sustain injuries. However, according to UNHCR, "no one sustained serious injuries". Is this a statement that is in any way related to their mandate? Are they mandated to say, "no one suffered serious injuries?"

An injury is an injury. Mental, physical, minor, serious injuries are all injuries and no one is meant to have any of them simply because they belong to a certain magnalised group among an unwelcoming society, for so long as humanity still exists.

Additionally, what UNHCR claims to be misinformation on social media about those injured is wrong and unhuman of them. Those are victims explaining their experiences in the entire sagga. Their experiences should never be termed as misinformation. No one among the victims is mentally ill to claim that they were injured when it's not true, why would they need to misinform? They were injured, they got treatment, they reported to police and more so, they were victimised. It should stop being an a found act of UNHCR to term victims' homophobic experiences as "misinformation". Homophobia causes injuries. Be it mental, physical, minor, serious, not serious, they're all injuries and so a durable solution should be sought, not manipulating victims' experiences as misinformation.

We also believe that UNHCR should consider the fact that the 1,000 refugees went back home without picking up their food simply because they saw it more important to pick up stones and throw them to us than picking up their food. None of us asked them to stop picking up food. Literally, a number of 100 refugees, can't stop 1000 other refugees to pick up their food and get back to their homes. Such a narrative from a humanitarian agancy like UNHCR only shows a clear bias about LGBTQ refugees. We cannot be blamed for stopping 1000 refugees to pick up their food, and rather not seen important to condemn or emphasise what the 1000 refugees violately did to us, with police. We would like to advise UNHCR to improve their mechanisms of gathering evidence about such incidents, otherwise its so mean of them to come up with such a paragraph in their statement, alternatively, this exhibits more bias about LGBTQ refugees from most partners that UNHCR works with to collect evidence, data and information before coming up with their official statements.

Lastly, whatever happened on 3rd February 2023 was a clear indication that Kakuma refugee camp is homophobic and will never accept lgbtiq refugees. The problem isn't about a group of LGBTQ individuals in the camp. No, the problem is the fact that we are living in a place that is homophobic and there is no any number of police patrol cars, or community sensitisation that will ever solve that. Actually, they are just escalating the entire crisis, leaving us targeted, exposed and risked. Everyone in the camp is biased about LGBTQ refugees. Doctors in hospitals, humanitarian workers, police, members of the host community and fellow refugees.

To else one reading this, please help us amplify our voices. Help us find a durable solution to save our lives please.

We refute allegations that we were protesting

What really goes on for LGBTQ people in Kakuma, Kenya

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 20:26:40 GMT

Our response to UNHCR Africa's statement on LGBTIQ assylum seekers

Let me start with allegations by UNHCR KENYA that Kakuma Refugee camp is now safe or some how tolerant to lgbtiq individuals.

The fact that we no longer report these incidents doesn't give anyone a free ticket to mark the camp as a better place for us to stay.

1). Police officers offer free unconsented #conversiontherapy to us whenever we go to report. This is awkward and disgusting to us and as a result, we seized reporting these attacks.

2). This virus of #conversiontherapy is infesting UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency protection officials as well. They advise us to keep normal and leave homosexuality aside. They add on promises that its when one will be given real protection. Therefore, we seized "over" reporting to them.

3). Whenever we report, no justice is delivered.

This is in response to what UNHCR Africa has produced in their "7 page statement" about the situation we are going through in Kenya.

We are still targeted, raped, brutalised, filled with fear, sexually abused and exploited, discriminated, etc.

We don't have access to medical services in camp hospitals because we are discriminated there. Discrimination based on sexually differences is real and we can't say that it no longer exists.

We still call on the world to kindly keep imploring, requesting and demanding UNHCR to act per their mandate. They have an obligation to protect us no matter what.

We kindly request the Kenyan government as well through Department of Refugee Services - DRS, Kenya to issue us with refugee statuses. This is to help us access education for Higher education and get realistic durable solutions that can guarantee our safety and freedom at a certain level.

THANK YOU STICHING FONDS DE TRUT

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 06:01:11 GMT

It's such a great pleasure to be in touch and under your consideration as the LGBTQI community Kakuma.

Life is challenging for all of us right now, so we put together every effort we have to lift our own selves. Although the journey is still long, you have successfully given us encouragement to push past our challenges and daily night mares to overcome our obstacles.

Thank you STICHTING FONDS DE TRUT for your support throughout our experience. We are so grateful for your positive outlook and support. We appreciate your kindness now and always.

Kenya LGBT Refugees Report Feeling Unsafe At Camp

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 04:19:20 GMT

LGBT refugees in one of Kenya’s biggest camps for displaced people are asking to be relocated because of what they have described as an increase in discrimination and harassment by other refugees in the camp because of their sexual orientation.

One of the refugees, who asked not to be identified due to fears of further backlash, told the BBC “we do not feel safe at the camp any more”.

Kakuma is run by the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and is one of the biggest refugee camps in Kenya, hosting hundreds of thousands of internally displaced people, as well as those from neighbouring countries.

Last week there were protests by LGBT groups in the camp, who complained about harassment and abuse towards them, which led to the temporary arrest of 18 people, scuffles, and the use of tear gas.

All of those detained were released the next day after UNHCR officials negotiated their release.

“We are fed up, Kakuma is no longer safe for us as members of the LGBTQI community. We are threatened. We have made complaints to the UNHCR and no action has been taken,” said the refugee.

They allege that the discrimination and harassment has made it close to impossible to access social services like education and events held at the camp because they are not allowed to mingle with the rest of the community.

A UNHCR spokesperson told the BBC that the body has been working with the LGBT community at the camp to guarantee their safety and security by increasing police patrol where they live and work, with community volunteers to help integrate them and increase awareness about protection of their rights and equality.

“The UNHCR remains committed to working towards ensuring the protection of, and finding durable solutions for, all refugees regardless of their culture, nationality, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, or any other factor,” said UNHCR spokesperson Charity Nzomo.

“We are committed to ensuring that all refugees and asylum seekers residing in Kenya, including those with an LGBTIQ+ profile, are provided with the best possible protection and assistance on a fair and equal basis,” Ms Nzomo continued.

Story By BBC

Amnesty International Post Highlights Lucretia's Journey

jason@loomcreative.com.au (Jason Knight) — Sat, 28 May 2022 22:20:14 GMT

Amnesty International (Kenya) posts Lucreatia's story

Amnesty International has posted an article that tells the harrowing journey of Kakuma LGBTQ Activist Lucretia so the world can start to understand the plight of the LGBTQ residents of Kakuma Refugee Camp. The article goes into great detail about Lucretia's journey to leave Uganda under fear of death. You can read it here:

https://www.amnestykenya.org/lgbtq-voice-from-kakuma/

Please like and share the article as broadly as you can.

CONVERSION THERAPY IN THE AFRICAN CONTEXT

Mon, 02 May 2022 09:55:49 GMT

From Africa at large to Kenyan local communities like Kakuma Refugee camp, it's believed that being LGBTQ+ is a habit referred to an act of mentally, physically and sometimes spiritual possession.

From Africa at large to Kenyan local communities like Kakuma Refugee camp, it's believed that being LGBTQ+ is a habit referred to an act of mentally, physically and sometimes spiritual possession. Others reach out to an extent of referring it to "The Western culture". When you find a seriously religious group of people or an individual, they refer to it as Western demons possession.

This in the long push has made many LGBT youths run insane. It makes them fail to acquire the sense of belonging in a community. Actually, most of these young individuals are given "counselling" by parents, others are taken to churches to be prayed for, others taken to physiotherapists, all to "help" them forget and do away with homosexuality.

Yes, due to frustration of the process, some of these young LGBTI individuals abide to the process and choose to denounce homosexuality, which later affects them mentally and emotionally that they commit suicide. Those who have resisted the process end up being disowned by parents and family, community and the best option they have is seeking asylum.

Let's take a crystal clear example of a massive flee that's currently happening in the East African region, where LGBTI persons are fleeing there home countries for reasons of their sexuality and gender identities to Kenya with hopes of seeking and finding free safe asylum. Most of these people will inform you during a simple conversation that they were first subjected to such kind of inhumane "conversion" process. Some of them resist it and only that puts their lives at the front of being lost or detained. So, they end up stepping their first steps into the journey of asylum. They run from their homes for their lives.

Reaching their asylum country like Kenya, they don't find the policies favouring as well. During the time I was having simple conversations with several people in Kakuma Refugee camp about this matter, it seemed like 80% of the total population was subjected to this.

"I strongly believe this therapy is deadly and doesn't work out in accordance to what is being intended to. It should be bunned in the world because I love my self the way I'm ....I never woke up and I just decided to become A Transgender ..I was just born in the wrong body ...but deep inside I'm female and that should not be debated for;

many scenarios here in KENYa kakuma refugee camp were by This deadly therapy has been greatly fueled by UNHCR through Danish Refugee Council, where by studies have been conducted forcing to change of persons sexual orientation ,gender identity or gender expression. This should greatly be condenmed, gender and sexuality is nature chosen not a lesson". These were some of the words of desperate LGBTI refugees in the camp.

This therapy further creates more confusion and has encountered for the death of many LGBT through succide since it doesn't spread hope rather emphasizes hate and criticism of ones' gender expression and sexual orientation.

"I remember not only once or twice we have been forced to be "normal" im already in my right minds and I don't need to convert to anything that I can't suit".... another folk adds.

In most cases, this weird therapy happens on a base line of providing protection. Security entities, organisations, health facilities especially mental health units, in the camp openly tell folks whom have gone to them for their services that they are reasons of their sexualities that they are experiencing homophobia, and once they do away with it, (homosexuality), they won't need to run to their offices requesting for their services. This happens in a way of sending them a reminder that, "we have no help for you here if your still a homosexual". As a result of frustration, embarrassment and depression, cases of suicidal attempts, ideations, trauma increases among these vulnerables.

To my conclusion, no LGBT should be forced to live a life one wants because its harmful emotionally. Such kind of a therapy doesn't have to be used against the LGBTQ community to “cure” or “repair” sex and gender in the name of providing them safety and protection they seek. This reveals how the therapy is indirectly put into place to erase LGBT people and i call it hidden homophobia.

The world needs to know that LGBTIQA belong, we are not mentally disturbed, we are not possed by western culture and demons, we are not a problem to humanity ��️‍��️‍�� we are humans just like the rest.

Laws were made to govern people, but I'm afraid how some penal codes and enacted laws turn to hunt or target someone because of his/her/their gender identity and sexual orientation. Love should be emphasized, not preaching hate and criticism to the extreme of letting a person resort to suicide or asylum as the only option to escape pain and other risks.

Freedom shouldn't be impractical, this was made very clear in the Universal Declaration of Human right "Article 1. All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.

#freeblock13kakumaNew Paragraph

Block 13 Meets Queers of Joy

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 19:49:53 GMT

Video: How Block 13 found and connected with Queers of Joy

The story of how Lucretia - a transgender refugee living in Kakuma refugee camp's Block 13 - found Queers of Joy on the internet and connected with them. Now Queers of Joy is running regular events to raise money to help the members of Block 13 fight for their freedom and to help them find asylum in a safe country.

THE LGBTIQA+ REFUGEE CRISIS IN KENYA FACES INACTIVITY

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 18:17:32 GMT

THE LGBTIQA+ REFUGEE CRISIS IN KENYA FACES INACTIVITY AND SILENCE FROM AUTHORITIES.

HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED WHY?

Being grateful that in the East African region, it is only Kenya as a state that grants asylum to people fleeing persecutions, fear of their lives, detentions, mob justice and discrimination due to their sexualities. It is in this African region that we find countries like Sudan, Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya where being gay is punished by either life imprisonment, death by the community, or 14 years of prison.

Since 2010 - 2014, a massive migration of LGBTI in this region from place to place really increased as most countries had their homosexual bills signed in as laws during that period.

Till date living circumstances aren't yet favourable for these people. LGBTI can't live freely in these communities and most of them have decided to flee to seek asylum.

Since it is only Kenya granting asylum to them, the biggest number is living in unbearable conditions in urban areas and Refugee camps of Kenya. The biggest number that lives in urban areas (outside the camp) like Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret have to do this due to the horrible living standards of the camp and once they are caught by the country police, they have to spend a period of not less than six months in jail for breaking the country law that only permits refugees and asylum seekers to stay in refugee camps.

Unless you're allowed by the government of Kenya to stay in urban areas, you have to call a refugee camp your home.

Today let's try to analyse the circumstances that could be leading to reasons why relevant authorities like UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency and the Kenyan government are silent and inactive to respond to the worrying, alarming, devastating LGBTIQA+ crisis in Kenya with appropriate measures to fix the human rights violation going on among queer people.

Its on record that Kakuma Refugee camp, where the biggest number of these people live is a place filled with homophobia since 2014 till now. Thus, we conclude that HOMOPHOBIA EXISTS IN THE CAMP AND URBAN AREAS, however much authorities are informing the world that the situation is under control now, as in (they drived out the homophobia that was leading to the EVACUATION of lgbt since 2014 till 2019). Therefore, if its on record that Kakuma Refugee camp and urban areas still have homophobia, why is UNHCR and the Kenyan government still silent and inactive to protect these vulnerable minorities in their jurisdiction against the homophobic wrath that's actually claiming their lives;

1). Could we think of the low attitude that they have to protect lgbt lives, of which this comes alongside with a thinking that there might be a certain level of discrimination in the Refugee system basing on sexual differences? If other refugees and asylum seekers are protected, why does it have to be lgbtiq yet they are considered to be at a higher risk of facing serious protection challenges than any other group?

Even proper safe accommodation failed to be availed to the extent that most of them choose to sleep outside in open air for their safety at night from raids and arson attacks!!!!

2). Could we also think of the fact that UNHCR KENYA shifted its responsibility and handed it over to the Kenyan government that has no knowledge, love, attitude, morale and experience in protecting lgbt vulnerables? This is because Kenyan constitution is its self not in favour of her own LGBTI citizens.

Its on record that UNHCR expects the Kenyan government to ensure protection of all people in the camp, regardless of sexuality, age, interest, etc.

Most worrying is that protection is leaving the LGBTI out however much we all understand the international obligation that the Kenyan government has to offer free and safe asylum to everyone who comes requesting it. Lest we forget that the Kenyan government is insisting that imploring security measures like; Increasing police patrol and presence, urging the LGBTQIA to keep a low profile (however much it failed), limiting movements, moving in groups, are one of the effective ways to ensure our safety in the camp. Could these measures still be counted on despite the insecurity reports coming from there?

3). Could we also think that the reason why authorities are silent and inactive is simply that the LGBTI haven't yet been recognised as refugees so as they get eligible for international protection? At least this might ensure a durable solution immediately for them.

"We are thus afraid that the reason why we haven't yet been recognised as refugees is the reason why we still have to endure all this, however much we have been in our asylum country for years." Cries out a gay man.

"We believe that maybe they are doing this for a chance to buy time. We are getting several arguments that we are still not yet protected because we are not recognised as refugees yet. If we were refugees, we be eligible for international protection which will solve our insecurity situation now." he teary adds.

A lot of people, entities, authorities, donors have for example the European Parliament have already asked for something to be done by the Kenyan government to protect these people but its all in vain.

So, with these, can we conclude that UNHCR KENYA and the Kenyan government aren't protecting the LGBTQIA because of the above circumstances or there could be more to think of? Please feel free to drop your thoughts in the comments section below.

The victims however still call on the international community, international agencies, organisations and UNHCR to please do everything possible to ensure that their rights and freedom are no longer violated to this extent please. All they need is a place and or community that will be safe for them to stay as anyone else.

#freeblock13kakuma

If the truth could be revealed

Sat, 09 Apr 2022 19:46:48 GMT

IF THE TRUTH COULD BE REVEALED

We are at the crossroads,

Mirrors reflecting our faces,

We doomed where to head,

Could it be the dead end.

Born free,minds fresh,hands chained,

Everything blossomed,

Is our life nature,

It's what we where meant to be.

It's a curved ball,

Oh yeah a curved box,

No where to run,

Short of ideas,with our God mother

A judgement befalls,on the cross roads,

Where should we go!

It's a dead end,

Yet the world watches!

The silent island appears.

The sparkling light dims,

We good as dead,

If could only resastate.

But who could be the saviour,

The saviour lost in fake paradise,

We are our own saviours,

Dad taught me that!

Believe in myself,

Never them, Trust myself,

Only me can.

But why?

The world should know,

We are black-brothers,

Not enemies,

Thou shalt live,

By help of one another,

And aim at justice,

For we live for justice,

And shall die for injustice.

Trinidad (pictured) was burnt alive in Kenya's Kakuma Refugee camp, 15th March 2021 and later died on the 14th March 2021 from his injuries.

United Nations - Article 5

jason@loomcreative.com.au (Jason Knight) — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 20:22:19 GMT

A STATEMENT BY THE LGBTI COMMUNITY IN KENYA KAKUMA REFUGEE CAMP TO THE UN REFUGEE AGENCY, UNHCR.

In the East African community, Kenya's North West in Turkana County that's where we find Kakuma refugee camp with a population of almost 200,000 people, and it's with in that camp that we the queer people are living.

A refugee has the right to safe asylum and freedom of thought, of movement, and freedom from torture and degrading treatment according to UNHCR.

And according to the universal declaration of human rights article 5, “No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.” We the LGBTQIA+ refugees in Kakuma have for long been living out of the scope of these fundamental human rights.

Hence we have decided to speak in unison to address these and a number of other issues that have either been overlooked or misrepresented by UNHCR giving a false picture of security and safety here in Kakuma refugee camp. In so doing, we have been denied a safe environment resulting in avoidable injuries, loss of personal property and life. This false picture has been painted with the help of external organizations which have come bearing a tag of human rights defenders when indeed their interest has either been monitory or have simply been used to promote the absurd notion that a few material things can make death and injuries resulting from homophobia and transphobia bearable. Based on that notion promoted by these organizations, some of who have appeared alongside UNCHR while speaking to the press, they have created the narrative that, it’s is the fault of the LGBTQIA+ refugees because we are not able to hide who we are. This narrative also has implied that the LGBTQIA+ refugees are simply looking for resettlement in the third country. According to the UNHCR and its agents, it’s very unreasonable for the persecuted and dying refugees in Kakuma refugee camp to want a safe environment outside of Kenya and that the horrors that we face on a daily basis are ok. This is a homophobic and transphobic attack on us by the very institution that purports to protect us from the same.

Therefore, we strongly refute the allegations that we are not peaceful people and that the attacks we have suffered have been provoked. We also strongly refute the claim that Kakuma is not homophobic and transphobic. We continue to struggle to understand why we find ourselves in the same homophobic camp where UNHCR and the Kenyan government had to evacuate the LGBTQIA+ refugees as recently as 2019 to protect them from homophobic attacks. We have been given a shocking impression that upholding the Kenyan encampment policy is more important than saving lives even though this policy can and has been waived in the recent past.

We are disappointed by the casual approach and the laxity which the UNHCR and its partners continue to display in the way they have responded to the attacks on LGBTQIA+ refugees in Kakuma refugee camp which have claimed lives and left many with grave physical and psychological injuries. We read with a lot of shock their inaccurate statements claiming that Kakuma is now hospitable to the LGBTQIA+ and that the majority of us are living in relative safety. We can confirm that this is not true and that as a whole the LGBTQIA+ group in Kakuma, we continue to face attacks irrespective of which part of Kakuma we live in. Children, women and others in the LGBTQIA+ community continue to face unprovoked attacks, harassment and heavy discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. UNHCR’s attempt to make it look like the problem lies within the queer community itself constitutes an attack on our vulnerable community and is out of line with their primary duty to recognize and protect those that are most vulnerable. This is highly regrettable and a strong deviation from their mandate.

We have turned to activists to get basics such as medical care and food, things which should be UNHCR’S obligations. Their attempts to undermine these humanitarian efforts shows that they are not bothered about our wellbeing. As the entire LGBTQIA+ family living in hostile and homophobic Kakuma refugee camp, we reiterate the following to UNHCR:

1, We need a safe place where we can live without fear of being attacked for who we are and to prevent further injuries and loss of live as a result of these homophobic attacks.

2, We call on the UNHCR to evacuate us out of Kakuma as a short term measure to prevent further loss of lives.

3, We remind UNHCR and it’s partners that we are the victims in Kakuma and not the problem and that if our sexuality becomes known for some reason that in itself is not a crime and definitely does not justify an attack on us as they have indicated in their statements.

4, We remind UNHCR and that all the challenges that we continue to face in Kakuma are directly associated with us being in an already proven homophobic environment, and that the current security measures in place have failed to protect lives and counting on them to protect us, further endangers our lives.

5, We also remind the UNHCR and it’s partners that bringing us to Kakuma was a mistake as the death of Chriton Atuhwera and Namubiru Patricia has shown and not to mention the grave injuries that we continue to sustain as a result of that decision. We urge them to learn from our losses and horrible experiences and undo their fatal decision to keep us in Kakuma.

6, We call on the UNHCR to stop covering up clear acts of homophobia and transphobia. Their continued effort to delegitimize attacks on the LGBTIQA+ by blaming the victims is very unfortunate and to say the least shocking.

7, We call on the UNHCR to stop endangering the LGBTQIA+ further by insisting that they meet and dialogue with their attacker. This is not only insensitive to the already traumatized community but also further exposes the us without guarantee that it will be of help at all.

THANK YOU ALL.

WHY DID UNHCR BRING LGBTQ BACK TO KAKUMA CAMP AFTER 2018- 2019 EVACUATION?

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 19:56:40 GMT

WHY DID UNHCR BRING LGBTQ BACK TO KAKUMA CAMP AFTER 2018- 2019 EVACUATION?

In 2019, the UNHCR KENYA had to EVACUATE all LGBTQIA by then to safe havens claiming that the Kuchus weren't safe anymore in the camp. This evacuation came after when these queers were experiencing several hate persecutions, attacks, threats, rapes, police brutalities, among others. They (children and women) were homeless and sleeping outside according to UNHCR's statement they produced as they were expediting this evacuation process. On top of that, they claimed that Kakuma camp had failed the LGBTQIA to offer them protection.

It's however to everyone's surprise seeing that it's the same UN Refugee Agency still bringing in more LGBTQIA till today in the same camp, even immediately after they had evacuated the recent big number in early 2019.

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency is however claiming that one of the reasons as to why they brought LGBTQIA back to the camp was ;

1). that they had increased and stabilised the security by the "KENYAN POLICE" in the camp and Kakuma at large.

2). You find yourself that in some other instances, they claim that they had to bring the LGBTQIA back because of the rapidly increasing Covid-19 cases in urban areas and we were at risk, which was good of our own selves.

However, the sole question and as well our worry is ;

1). Is the police doing enough to ensure the protection of the current LGBTQIA crisis in the camp despite the fact that they are among the most homophobic stakes in the crisis?

2). If the LGBTQIA were brought to the camp because of the pandemic, isn't there an urgent need right now to relocate these vulnerable Minorities to a protected area in other words getting some kind of proper protection other than using the pandemic to leave these lives wondering in the vast community of several cultures and norms that are highly prioritised?

All these questions come up the moment one, especially a victim hears of such excuses that UNHCR KENYA decide to opt for incited of protecting lives. The truth of the matter is that UNHCR needs to stand out and condemn plus protecting these lives that are stake. Kicking the ball to the Kenyan police which is its self brutally homophobic is something insane.

(You can't send me to police for PROTECTION when the truth is that one of them brutalised me lately, or even threatened to shot me).

The same as to the pandemic excuse. We all believe that the pandemic has destroyed lives but it shouldn't be a shield to hide behind as queer lives are being threatened and killed. There should be measures to be taken so as to work within the pandemic to protect these lives immediately.

��️‍⚧��️‍⚧��️‍⚧��️‍⚧��️‍⚧LGBT in Kenya Kakuma camp need immediate protection and safety.��️‍��️‍��️‍��️‍��️‍��️‍��

#freeblock13kakuma

UNHCR - Why?

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 18:34:06 GMT

WHY DID UNHCR BRING LGBTQ BACK TO KAKUMA CAMP AFTER 2018- 2019 EVACUATION?

In 2019, the UNHCR KENYA had to EVACUATE all lgbt by then to safe havens claiming that the kuchus weren't safe anymore in the camp. This evacuation came after when these queers were experiencing several hate persecutions, attacks, threats, rapes, police brutalities, among others. They (children and women) were homeless and sleeping outside according to UNHCR's statement they produced as they were expediting this evacuation process. On top of that, they claimed that Kakuma camp had failed the lgbt to offer them protection.

It's however to everyone's surprise seeing that it's the same UN Refugee Agency still bringing in more lgbt till today in the same camp, even immediately after they had evacuated the recent big number in early 2019.

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency is however claiming that one of the reasons as to why they brought lgbt back to the camp was ;1). that they had increased and stabilized the security by the "KENYAN POLICE" in the camp and Kakuma at large.

2). You find yourself that in some other instances, they claim that they had to bring the lgbt back because of the rapidly increasing Covid-19 cases in urban areas and we were at risk, which was good of our own selves.

However, the sole question and as well our worry is ;

1). Is the police doing enough to ensure the protection of the current lgbt crisis in the camp despite the fact that they are among the most homophobic stakes in the crisis?

2). If the lgbt were brought to the camp because of the pandemic, isn't there an urgent need right now to relocate these vulnerable Minorities to a protected area in other words getting some kind of proper protection other than using the pandemic to leave these lives wondering in the vast community of several cultures and norms that are highly prioritised?

(You can't send me to police for PROTECTION when the truth is that one of them brutalised me lately, or even threatened to shot me).

#freeblock13kakuma

Sleeping outside

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 18:18:54 GMT

The sad and sinister reason it is safer to sleep outside in Kakuma refugee camp if your are a member of the LGBTQIA community

On arrival in the camp, all asylum seekers are given a shelter. As any other group of people, LGBTI are also given shelters amidst the vast majority of the camp mates, with different ideologies about LGBTI, with different cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, norms, etc.

However, when LGBTI people are given a shelter in a such a community of people, they don't spend even a night there. And if some of them get a chance to spend a night there, they have to be on a night watch throughout the entire night, such that to be vigilant just incase of any invasion of thieves and homophobes.

Immediately a shelter is allocated to a queer person, members of the community tend to pass by to welcome a new arrival to the area, show him or her the latrines, water points, and other briefings. It is however, at this time, that the same community members get to know of ones sexuality.

They notice this mostly by asking if you know Kiswahili or not, (in East Africa, its only Uganda mostly that doesn't use Kiswahili, they use English mostly. Additionally, everyone understands that they are only Ugandans mostly who are fleeing to Refugee camps for reasons of their sexuality, nothing else much. So, even though you fled for other reasons, Ugandans have a general reason of being LGBTI). With that, conclusions that you're actually a member of the LGBTQIA community are made.

Immediately, you start noticing them changing and most of them start to distance you right away. At night, they don't allow you to sleep till morning, most of them run from the shelter that night, others don't spend any night at all, others spend a few days as they are still holding on but searching for at least a safe space within the camp. Mostly, the immediate solution is to shift several shelters and build them to make kind of a small community with some good number of folks. This gives them a chance to stand up in defensive power just in case of any attack or raid at night or during day time. It gives them some time to breathe other than when each and everyone is staying alone across the entire camp, which is believed to be more risky.

However, this still doesn't give them a free ticket to a durable solution. They still have to face abrupt night attacks especially arson attacks. Or, they are waited as they are on the way to shops or markets. "Its still risky as long as your still living in the camp "... Says one of the LGBTI folks.

Currently, several arson attacks have been recorded and lots more are still expected to be recorded once physical protection and or evacuation of LGBTQ people from the camp isn't ensured ASAP.

Children, lesbians, transgenders, gay men, aren't spared from trauma, depression, anxiety, hopeless ness, PTSD, etc of such insane attacks.

Arson attacks, night raids, too much sunshine all cause destruction of their sleeping materials and an immediate need of replacement is always available.

Till date, most of these LGBTI people are still choosing to sleep outside, not because they lack shelters but because they are in fear of sleeping inside, they are in fear of losing their lives to arson attacks. It will be remembered that one of the LGBTI in Kakuma Refugee camp was burnt and later died after a month. Others choose to stay awake as they are doing night shifts to watch around as one of the ways to ensure safety through the night.

Once cup of rice...

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 17:54:39 GMT

Starving and without options to obtain food, the people in Block 13 found a way to connect and strengthen their community.

After the excitement of the last online show of Queers of Joy , where the Kings of Joy were interviewed and Lucretia, Festo and Fahad shared their dire situation in Block 13 and performed a harrowing lip sync to "We are the World, We are the Children...", the hype wore off quickly with a sobering message from Lucretia.

"We have one cup of rice left to last until Christmas." The community of 56 adults plus children had a lot more on their minds.

Since my partner, Chris started fundraising through the Queer of Joy trans, non-binary and gender diverse community.

Block 13 are an incredible group of humans who are self-organised. They have a finance team, Lucretia is a human rights defender and more. They have been very responsible and accountable, showing Chris through the camp and explaining how things work, receiving smaller amounts of money at a time.

If you haven't yet heard how Queers of Joy and Block 13 met, catch up here . Meanwhile, you'll remember that their shelter has been petrol bombed several times, being burnt to the ground with people dying from these attacks. The community has had no shelter and people have been sleeping on the ground. You can see in the photos the difference that's been made by donating. Mattresses have been bought as well as rice and a cooking pot. Thank you for your contribution.

We are learning a lot about this situation and are reaching out in our networks to anyone who could help this group of LGBTQIA+ refugees. ORAM (Organisation for Refugee Asylum & Migration) and Rainbow Railroad have also written a detailed report about the community dated October 2021.

When communities and people connect, all of our lives are enriched. Please keep sharing.

🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈A REQUEST FOR ATTENTION, NOT TENSION 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 10:49:10 GMT

Keeping quiet is simply not part of me.

Keeping quiet is simply not part of me. Getting bound to oppression, and still have to shut up isn't part of me. Saying yes, in amidst of all kinds of insane injustices is not part of me.

After the fact that all is done till date to keep a blanket covered on the true homophobic practices right from authority offices down the immediate neighbour in the community, I can't afford to still give a closed mouth to it. After electing a Block leader, who recently threatened to burn you alive is one thing that gives a clear message to us that we are not considered part of the community to even have a right to opinion, otherwise we wouldn't have let such a thing to happen.

When we still have trans phobic acts of undressing transgenders in public to prove their gender, having lesbians raped to prove their gender, having a queer man burnt down to death as a punishment for who he is, calls for more "noise" and whoever is irritated by it, your description is as simple as being a pure homophobe.

LGBTI in Kakuma Refugee camp are under serious homophobic life taking circumstances, shelter less, living in fear, oppressed, discriminated, etc.

I use more of this space to implore @UNHCR_Kenya act and ensure proper documentation of all LGBTI so as we get eligible for international protection ASAP please.

......... JUST SPEAKING OUT..... NOT CALLING FOR A VOICE BLOCKAGE.....

#solidariltywithblock13

#freeblock13kakuma

Block 13 Celebrates International Transgender Day of Visibility

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 12:20:10 GMT

Celebrating the International Transgender Day of Visibility

The members of Kakuma Refugee Camp's Block 13 celebrate International Transgender Day of Visibility. Show your support by sharing this post and this website.