2016 — Founding of The Fruit Basket (TFB), South Africa
The Fruit Basket (TFB), founded in 2016, is a trans- and migrant-led organisation based in Johannesburg South Africa. The organisation was founded by Thomars Shamuyarira, a trans migrant from Zimbabwe. TFB is a a Non-Profit Organisation that works to advance the welfare and rights of LGBTQI+ migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers who come to South Africa seeking protection. TFB hopes to have representatives in all countries that host LGBTQI+ migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.
Context
From their website:
“The rights of LGBTQI+ persons on the African continent are severely constrained, leading many to leave their countries of birth and seek sanctuary elsewhere. South Africa is one of the few countries globally that grants refugee status on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, the system, however, does not work as it’s supposed to and many LGBTQI+ migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers find themselves undocumented. Without proper documentation, they cannot find employment or gain access to services and programs. The Fruit Basket helps restore the dignity of this marginalized community through assistance with the documentation process and information, skills development training, relief work, and, also working as a referral system, connecting the community with different service providers. We fight and will continue to fight for our region to be inclusive, where everyone regardless of nationality, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or beliefs has access to quality healthcare, meaningful education, and employment in their host country.”
Vision
To advocate and create a society and environment that allows for access to all services that are available to LGBTIQ+ migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees to be able to live up to their full potential and well-being.
Mission
To promote equality and opportunities in a safe and secure environment for LGBTIQ+ migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.
Values
- To respect the gender, cultural and religious differences of all LGBTIQ+ migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.
- To be focused on the needs of all LGBTIQ+ migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.
- To keep absolute confidentiality on all matters relating to all LGBTIQ+ migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.
First LGBTQI Safe House in South Africa
In September 2023, The Fruit Basket marked a historic milestone by opening the first LGBTQI+ Refugee Safe House in South Africa. This initiative came in direct response to the alarming passage of the Kill The Gays Bill in Uganda (Anti-Homosexuality Act, 2023), a law that has led to rampant persecution and violence against LGBTQI+ individuals. As news of the law spread, an influx of trans and queer persons from Uganda sought refuge in South Africa, looking for safety and security away from the oppressive environment of their home country.
Recognising the urgent need for support and safety, TFB took swift action to establish a safe haven for those fleeing persecution. The initial opening of the safe house provided accommodation for 10 trans and queer refugees, offering them not just shelter but a supportive community where they could begin to heal from the traumas they had endured. This was a groundbreaking moment, as no other organization in South Africa had undertaken such a significant step to directly address the needs of LGBTQI+ refugees.
Due to the overwhelming demand and the continued influx of individuals seeking refuge, TFB soon expanded the safe house to accommodate 16 persons. This safe space is not only a physical refuge; it represents a beacon of hope and a commitment to human rights for some of the most vulnerable members of the LGBTQI+ community.
At the safe house, residents have access to essential resources, including counseling, legal aid, and workshops aimed at empowerment and resilience-building. The sense of community fostered within the walls of the safe house has provided solace and support to those who have faced unimaginable hardships.
The establishment of the safe house is a testament to TFB’s dedication to championing the rights and dignity of LGBTQI+ refugees. It highlights the organisation’s pioneering spirit in addressing critical issues faced by marginalised communities and its unwavering commitment to advocacy and support. As TFB continues to grow and respond to the needs of LGBTQI+ refugees, the safe house stands as a symbol of resilience, hope, and the power of community in the face of adversity.
The Fruit Basket in the Media
Thomars wrote an article for MambaOnline about refugees and the need for their inclusion in conversations about LGBTQI+ rights. Thomars is one of the founders of the Queer & Trans Refugee Advisory Network, formed in 2024.
Thomars was also interviewed by MambaOnline about his story and advocacy.
Contact
Website
+270642157577
Email: info@thefruitbasket.co.za / thomars@thefruitbasket.org.za
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