19 April 2019 — Founding of Entrepreneur Empowerment and Advocacy (EEA-Health), Kenya

19 April 2019 — Founding of Entrepreneur Empowerment and Advocacy (EEA-Health), Kenya

Founded on 19 April 2019, Entrepreneur Empowerment and Advocacy (EEA-Health) seeks to empower the trans, intersex and gender non-conforming (TIGNC) refugee communities of Kenya. It provides crucial support to asylum seekers fleeing Uganda’s oppressive anti-LGBTQ+ laws. EEA-Health aims to create a safe and empowering environment for those who have faced persecution, helping them navigate the numerous challenges they encounter upon arriving in Kenya. The organisation is registered, but not as an LGBTIQ+ organisation due to safety issues. EEA-HEALTH is a member of the Grassroots Justice Network.

Vision

To empower trans, intersex and gender non-conforming (TIGNC) refugees and asylum seekers by championing their rights through legal, social, and economic initiatives. To create a safe and inclusive environment where every individual, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, can thrive and reach their full potential.

Mission

To advocate for equal rights and create sustainable welfare for TIGNC refugees and asylum seekers in Kenya. To empower TIGNC individuals through legal reforms, policy advocacy, and economic empowerment initiatives to help them achieve better livelihoods and live with dignity and respect.

Thematic Focus Areas

Advocating for ITGNC rights

EEA-Health is dedicated to promoting the rights of TIGNC refugees and asylum seekers. Through legal advocacy, they fight for law and policy reforms that recognise and protect the rights of sexual minorities. The organisation collaborates with queer-friendly lawyers to offer pro-bono legal services and consultations, ensuring that TIGNC individuals have access to justice and legal protection.

Legal protection for refugees and asylum seekers

The organisation provides comprehensive legal and paralegal services to TIGNC refugees and asylum seekers, addressing issues such as asylum claims, discrimination, and human rights violations. Support includes offering security and safety training, raising awareness against homophobia and transphobia, and supporting victims of abuse through consultation and legal intervention.

Gender-based violence (GBV) and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) awareness

EEA-Health actively advocates against GBV and IPV within the local and TIGNC communities. They conduct campaigns and provide education to raise awareness about these issues, offering support and resources to victims. Their programmes aim to create safer environments and promote respectful and non-violent relationships.

Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights awareness

In collaboration with Amplify Change and the Trans Refugee Empowerment Network Africa (TRENA), the organisation runs awareness programmes on sexual and reproductive health rights. This 18-month initiative (2024—2025) focuses on educating TIGNC individuals about their health rights, providing essential health services, and ensuring access to reproductive healthcare.

Psychosocial support for people who use drugs

EEA-Health offers psychosocial support for TIGNC individuals who use drugs, including trans sex workers, those on hormone therapy, and individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Supported by UHAI-EASHRI in 2022-2023, this programme provides counseling, health services, and support networks to help improve the overall wellbeing of these individuals.

Climate change advocacy

Recognising the impact of climate change on LGBT+ refugee rights, EEA-Health advocates for climate justice and its implications on vulnerable communities. They engage in campaigns and educational programmes to highlight how climate change disproportionately affects LGBT+ refugees, aiming to develop adaptive strategies and resilience within these communities.

Community support and inclusion

EEA-Health believes in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all. They offer a range of services and programs that empower TIGNC refugees and asylum seekers to achieve their full potential. The organisation’s shelter provides a safe space for up to 10 refugees, while their advocacy and support services ensure that every individual feels valued and respected. By addressing these thematic areas and leveraging their strengths, EEA-Health continues to champion for the rights of TIGNC individuals, advocating for a just and inclusive society where everyone can live with dignity and respect.

Areas of Work

  • Provide safe housing and emergency support: To offer secure shelter for ITGNC asylum seekers fleeing persecution and ensure access to essential services for displaced individuals.
  • Enhance economic empowerment and sustainability: Developing livelihood programs through vocational training to catalyse financial independence through skills development and entrepreneurship.
  • Strengthen legal and documentation support: To ensure asylum seekers obtain legal protection and documentation through legal aid and advocacy for those facing discrimination or violence.
  • Promote health and well-being: To improve access to sexual and reproductive health services, including HIV/AIDS care and mental health support through campaigns and referral systems.
  • Advance advocacy and protection for ITGNC refugees: Raising awareness on LGBTQ+ refugee rights and Gender-Based Violence through advocacy and policy engagement to enhance movement building.

Contact

Website
+254757615931 / +254792747788
Email: refugees@empowermentadvocacy.org
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