The Regional ICD (International Classification of Diseases) Conference in 2015 was a landmark summit hosted in Johannesburg, South Africa from September 27–30, 2015. Co-hosted by Iranti, GATE (Global Action for Trans Equality) and Gender Dynamix, the gathering brought together over 30 trans and intersex activists representing 12 countries across Africa.

The Conference focus and highlights centred around ICD-11 Revision Advocacy. The primary goal was to mobilise African voices and influence the WHO’s ongoing development of the ICD-11. Activists advocated for the depathologisation of trans identities. The aim of the conference was to create a collaborative space for engagement on developing an African advocacy strategy on ICD revision through discussions, expert presentations and group work. Read more.

A video featuring the stories of trans participants from the Conference was published by Iranti in November 2015.

Fondée le 3 décembre 2024, Santé Lisungi/ASBL est une association de défense des droits LGBTQIA+ en République démocratique du Congo (RDC), dont la priorité est la défense des personnes trans et intersexuées. L’objectif de leur travail est de faciliter l’accès inclusif aux soins de santé pour les personnes trans et intersexuées, ainsi que pour les autres minorités sexuelles et de genre. L’association n’est pas encore enregistrée.

Founded on 3 December 2024, Santé Lisungi/ASBL is an LGBTQIA+ advocacy organisation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with trans and intersex advocacy as their main priority. The focus of their work is to facilitate inclusive access to healthcare for trans and intersex people, as well as other sexual and gender minorities. The organisation has not been registered yet.

La Vision / Vision

Devenir une référence en matière de soins de santé sûrs, inclusifs et équitables pour les minorités sexuelles et de genre en République démocratique du Congo.

To become a benchmark in safe, inclusive, and equitable healthcare for sexual and gender minorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

La Mission / Mission

Contribuer à améliorer la qualité de vie des minorités sexuelles et de genre en favorisant un accès inclusif aux soins de santé.

To contribute to improving the quality of life of sexual and gender minorities by promoting inclusive access to healthcare.

Objectifs de l’organisation / Organisational Objectives

L’association poursuit notamment les objectifs ci-dessous :

• Promouvoir la santé et le bien être, l’inclusion et l’accès facile à une prise en charge médicale holistique de qualité dans un environnement inclusif et sécurisé ;
• Sensibiliser les minorités sexuelles et de genre sur la santé sexuelle et reproductive en leur donnant des bonnes informations relatives aux différentes pathologies qui touchent à leur sexualité pour un accès équitable aux soins;
• Renforcer les compétences des professionnels de santé de la structure et des alliés sur les notions de genre et prise en charge thérapeutique juste, équitable et inclusive pour mettre fin à la discrimination, stigmatisation, marginalisation, et toutes autres formes de violences basées sur l’orientation sexuelle, identité de genre, expression de genre, couleur de peau, handicap physique, état serologique, taille, age, maladie chronique dans le milieu hospitalier ;
• Aider la cible à accéder à la santé positive et universelle ;
• Développer le partenariat entre les acteurs nationaux et internationaux en vue de briser certains préjugés sociaux dans le milieu sanitaire liés à l’état sérologique, à l’orientation sexuelle, à l’identité du genre, à l’handicap physique, à la couleur de peau, à la taille, à l’âge, à la maladie chronique;
• Conscientiser les décideurs politiques sur l’importance d’avoir une approche de santé inclusive qui prend en compte les minorités sexuelles et de genre, ainsi que d’autres personnes issues de groupes minoritaires dans les différents programmes du développement de pays et plaider en faveur des actions concrètes ;
• Œuvrer en faveur d’une participation quantitative et qualitative aux manifestations et forums internationaux promouvant l’inclusion et la diversité, le genre et l’égalité des chances pour tous ; et, a long terme,
  • construire des hôpitaux propres à la structure dans toutes les provinces de la RD Congo en général et en particulier à Kinshasa au service de nos cibles;
  • assurer le suivi des malades, permettant la continuité de la prise en charge;
  • contribuer dans la réduction des violences sexuelles et basées sur le genre ainsi que de leurs conséquences.

The association’s objectives include:

• Promoting health and well-being, inclusion, and easy access to quality holistic medical care in an inclusive and safe environment;
• Raising awareness among sexual and gender minorities about sexual and reproductive health by providing them with accurate information on the various pathologies that affect their sexuality, ensuring equitable access to care;
• Strengthen the skills of the organisation’s healthcare professionals and allies on the concepts of gender and fair, equitable, and inclusive therapeutic care to end discrimination, stigmatisation, marginalisation, and all other forms of violence based on sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, skin colour, physical disability, HIV status, height, age, and chronic illness in the hospital setting;
• Help the target population access positive and universal healthcare;
• Develop partnerships between national and international stakeholders to break down certain social prejudices in the healthcare setting related to HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical disability, skin colour, height, age, and chronic illness;
• Raise awareness among policymakers about the importance of an inclusive health approach that takes into account sexual and gender minorities, as well as other people from minority groups, in various country development programmes and advocate for concrete actions;
• Work towards quantitative and qualitative participation in international events and forums promoting inclusion and diversity, gender, and equal opportunities for all; and, in the long term
  • build hospitals of this structure in all provinces of the DRC in general, and in Kinshasa in particular, to serve our targets;
  • ensure patient follow-up, enabling continuity of care;
  • contribute to reducing sexual and gender-based violence and its consequences.

Des domaines d’intervention / Areas of Work

• Santé
• Droits humains
• Plaidoyer
• Autonomisation
• Immigration, réfugié et demande d’Asile.

• Health
• Human Rights
• Advocacy
• Empowerment
• Immigration, Refugees, and Asylum.

Contactez / Contact

Email: santelisungi.asbl@gmail.com
+243895555561
Facebook

Fondée en mars 2024 par Crespille Pige, Crépine Tossou, Joyce D’Almeida and Sephora Zouzou, Inclusion Togo s’adresse aux hommes transgenres, aux femmes transgenres, aux personnes queer et intersexuées. La principale mission de l’organisation est d’assurer le bien-être des personnes trans, queer et intersexes dans un environnement sûr.

Founded in March 2024 by Crespille Pige, Crépine Tossou, Joyce D’Almeida and Sephora Zouzou, Inclusion Togo caters to trans men and trans women, queer and intersex people. The main work of the organisation is to ensure the well-being of trans, queer and intersex people in a safe environment.

La vision / Vision

Un Togo inclusif et équitable ou toutes les personnes transgenres, queer et intersexe en particulier les plus vulnérables (travailleuses de sexe, personnes vivant avec le VIH, sans abri) vivent dans la dignité, jouissent de leurs droits fondamentaux et participant pleinement au développement social, économique et culturel.

An inclusive and equitable Togo where all transgender, queer and intersex people, especially the most vulnerable (sex workers, people living with HIV, the homeless), live in dignity, enjoy their fundamental rights and participate fully in social, economic and cultural development.

Mission

Œuvrer pour l’inclusion, la protection et l’autonomisation des personnes transgenres, queer et intersexe vulnérables au Togo, à travers des actions communautaires et des plaidoyers.

To work towards the inclusion, protection and empowerment of vulnerable transgender, queer and intersex people in Togo, through community actions and advocacy.

Objectifs / Objectives

Renforcer la prévention, la prise en charge du VIH chez les personnes trans, queer et intersexe, en promouvant l’autonomisation financière chez les plus vulnérables.

Strengthening HIV prevention and care for trans, queer, and intersex people, while promoting financial empowerment among the most vulnerable.

Domaines de travail / Areas of work

• Renforcement des de la prévention et prise en charge chez les personnes trans, queer et intersexe dans un contexte ou la prévalence du VIH chez les personnes transgenres est de 35%.
• Renforcement de l’autonomisation financière des personnes trans, queer et intersexe.
• Renforcement de l’estime de soi des personnes trans, queer et intersexe.

• Strengthening prevention and care for trans, queer, and intersex people in a context where the HIV prevalence among transgender people is 35%.
• Strengthening the financial empowerment of trans, queer, and intersex people.
• Strengthening the self-esteem of trans, queer, and intersex people.

Contacter / Contact

Email: inclusiontogo68@gmail.com
00228 90830769
Facebook

On 27 February 2024, Trans & Intersex History Africa (TIHA)’s co-founder, Liesl Theron, delivered a presentation to the Professional Association for Transgender Health South Africa (PATHSA) on the topic of the African history of trans and intersex movements. Liesl used the opportunity to highlight the work we do at TIHA in creating a first of its kind archive of trans and intersex movements in Africa and the African Diaspora. Watch the presentation on YouTube:

Founded on 7 September 2023, Initiative for Youth Health Rights and Education Empowerment (IYHREE) is an unregistered organisation with the goal to improve the quality of life of LGBTQI, specifically trans, intersex and gender non-conforming, youth in northern Nigeria by providing them with the tools they need to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing, and by advocating for their human rights. The organisation was founded by Mx Cookie, Juju Bee and Kira Earl La Posh. Kira is the current Executive Director.

Vision

To create an inclusive and supportive environment where young LGBTQI, specifically trans, intersex and gender non-conforming individuals can freely express themselves, access education and healthcare services, and thrive without discrimination or harassment.

Mission

To educate and empower LGBTQI, specifically trans, intersex and gender non-conforming youth in northern Nigeria by promoting health rights and education and specifically advocating for their equal rights in the society.

Projects

One of IYHREE’s projects is the in-person focus group and survey launched in partnership with ReportOUT. The focus group discussion took place in Northern Nigeria (Kaduna State), with the aim of gathering feedback and insights from these marginalised communities about their access to healthcare services. This collaboration focuses on addressing the healthcare needs of trans, intersex, and nonbinary individuals in Nigeria, with a goal of advocating for better access to quality care for these marginalised communities. Through this partnership, both organisations are working towards promoting inclusivity and equality in healthcare services for all individuals. The focus group discussion provided a platform for members of the trans, intersex, and nonbinary communities to share their stories, voice their concerns, and discuss potential solutions to improve access to healthcare services.

The online survey conducted was designed to collect information on the experiences and challenges faced by trans, intersex, and nonbinary individuals when seeking healthcare services. It covers a range of topics, including discrimination, lack of access to gender-affirming care, and barriers to receiving quality healthcare services.

The data collected from the survey and focus group discussion will be analysed and used to inform advocacy efforts aimed at addressing the systemic barriers that prevent trans, intersex, and nonbinary individuals from accessing quality healthcare services in Northern Nigeria. This information will also be used to develop recommendations for policymakers, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to improve healthcare access and outcomes for these communities.

According to Kira, IYHREE’s Executive Director,

“The partnership between IYHREE and ReportOUT represents a significant step towards advancing the rights and well-being of the trans, intersex, and nonbinary communities in Northern Nigeria. By listening to their voices and experiences, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system that meets the needs of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.”

Contact

Email: johnhyacinth44@gmail.com / iyhree0@gmail.com
+2349060933842
Facebook
Instagram

Founded on 12 June 2023 by Kyazze Arnold and Nyombi Enoch, Kajiado North for Empowerment and Social Welfare Outreach (KNESWO) works with queer refugees, gender diverse migrant sex workers, and trans sex workers. Since its establishment, KNESWO has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of marginalised queer refugee sex workers in Kenya. The organisation has provided critical support through legal aid, mental health services, and community empowerment programmes. Through its advocacy efforts, KNESWO has increased awareness about the discrimination and violence faced by its members and has successfully mobilised resources to create safer spaces for queer and trans sex workers.

Vision

A world where marginalised queer refugees, gender-diverse migrant sex workers, and trans sex workers are respected, empowered, and free from stigma. We celebrate diversity as the strength of our community, ensuring equal access to opportunities, rights, and safety for all.

Mission

To empower and unite marginalised queer refugees, gender-diverse migrant sex workers, and trans sex workers by fostering safety, advocacy, and leadership. KNESWO builds an inclusive community that celebrates diversity in culture, gender, and background, ensuring access to resources, rights, and support.

Goals

• Provide mental health and psychosocial support, including counselling and group therapy.
• Advocate for policy reforms and challenge stigma affecting queer refugee and migrant sex workers.
• Offer legal and protection empowerment for members facing discrimination or legal challenges.
• Facilitate health interventions through access to SRHR education and preventive healthcare.
• Conduct research and documentation to inform advocacy and policy change.
• Build a strong movement for marginalised communities, focusing on leadership and resilience.

Contact

Email: kneswo@gmail.com / consorti2022@gmail.com
+254707480048
Facebook
LinkedIn
X (Twitter)

Founded in Kenya in 2023 by Sheila Joy, Julie Troca, Brenda and other queer activists, Alliance Trans Shield works with vulnerable trans, non-binary, gender non-conforming, gender diverse and queer individuals, with a particular focus on asylum seekers and refugees. The organisation’s work extends to intersex people and LGBTQIA+ communities with projects specifically addressing trans and intersex needs, centering those most at risk of marginalisation, displacement, and violence. Alliance Trans Shield’s main work is survivor‑led advocacy, digital empowerment, and psychosocial support. They provide safe spaces, amplify voices through storytelling, and build solidarity networks for trans and queer refugees and asylum seekers. They also engage in regional movement‑building, resisting digital violence, and advancing sexual and reproductive health rights. The organisation has not been able to register yet due to transphobic government policies.

Vision

A continent where trans, non‑binary, gender diverse, and intersex people live with dignity, visibility, and justice free from violence and discrimination, and empowered to shape narratives that drive transformative change.

Mission

To harness digital power and survivor leadership in advocating for and empowering trans, non‑binary, gender diverse, and queer refugees and asylum seekers. Through campaigns, storytelling, and community driven initiatives, the organisation transforms digital spaces into platforms of protection, solidarity, and liberation.

Goals/Objectives

• Provide safe housing, psychosocial support, and livelihood opportunities for queer and trans refugees.
• Build solidarity networks across Africa and the Diaspora.
• Resist digital violence and promote safer online participation.
• Strengthen movement building by connecting organisations and activists regionally and internationally.
• Advance sexual and reproductive health rights for trans and gender diverse communities.

Focus areas

• Digital advocacy and empowerment: Using online platforms to amplify survivor voices and resist digital violence.
• Protection and safe housing: Supporting displaced trans and queer refugees with shelter and psychosocial care.
• Movement building and solidarity: Strengthening networks across East Africa and the Diaspora.
• Sexual and reproductive health advocacy: Promoting access to inclusive health services for trans and gender diverse communities.
• Storytelling and documentation: Preserving histories and lived experiences through blogs, workshops, and collaborative archives.
• Intersectional advocacy: Addressing overlapping issues of displacement, disability, gender, and sexuality in our projects.

Contact

Email: alliancetransshield@gmail.com
+254748092583
LinkedIn
Substack

Founded in Nigeria in November 2022 by Yemi Ogunwa, Positive Champions Health and Empowerment Initiative (PCHEI) works with trans, intersex and gender diverse persons in the fields of capacity building, mental health services, human rights intervention and advocacy, healthcare access and community research. PCHEI is dedicated to advancing health equity and environmental sustainability across Nigeria. Their programmes are designed to empower individuals, transform communities, and inspire positive action toward a healthier, cleaner, and more resilient future. The organisation was registered on 30 May 2024.

Vision

To have a society where indigent, vulnerable and marginalised persons, thrive in a positive and inclusive environment, with their health, rights, and well-being respected and protected.

Mission

To champion collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure the wellbeing of indigent, vulnerable and marginalised persons through advocacy, capacity building, empowerment, mental, sexual and reproductive health service delivery and to create a positive environment for them to thrive.

Objectives

• To advocate for the social and mental health rights and protection of indigent, vulnerable and marginalised persons.
• To contribute to the HIV/AIDS response and community mobilization efforts, focusing on outreach programmes and support services.
• To contribute to advocacy in executing laws and policies that protects rights of indigent, vulnerable and marginalised persons. 
• To collaborate with like-minded organizations to address sexual and mental health needs, empower young community members through skills acquisition programs, conduct and publish research to inform advocacy initiatives for indigent, vulnerable and marginalised persons 

Strategic Goals

• To empower indigent, vulnerable and marginalized persons, through education, skill development, mentorship, and leadership training. 
• To influence legislative changes and policy reforms that promote the rights and well-being of indigent, vulnerable and marginalised persons.
• To promote the well-being and positive mental health of indigent, vulnerable and marginalised persons. 
• Actively promoting the inclusion and participation of indigent, vulnerable and marginalised persons in community and societal spaces, program design, and decision-making processes.
• To conduct research and gather data on the unique challenges and needs of indigent, vulnerable and marginalised persons, and use this information to inform advocacy efforts and policy changes.
• To foster collaborative relationships with stakeholders, partners, and communities to strengthen the impact and reach of the organisation.

Focus/Thematic Areas

• Comprehensive healthcare: PCHEI collaborates with healthcare providers to ensure that indigent, vulnerable and marginalised persons have access to quality and gender-affirming healthcare services. The organisation also conducts health awareness campaigns and provide resources to help our communities make informed decisions about their health.
• Mental health and psychosocial support: The organisation offers counselling and support groups and provides sensitisation around the recognition and destigmatisation of mental health issues within the communities they serve.
• Advocacy and human rights: PCHEI engages in targeted advocacy campaigns, lobbying efforts, and policy analysis to challenge discriminatory practices, social and climate injustice, and promote inclusive policies. The organisation aims to influence legislative changes that enhance the rights and well-being of our communities. PCHEI conducts public awareness campaigns and training programs to combat stigmatisation and prejudice, as well as strives to foster a society that respects and embraces diversity.
• Community research: The organisation conducts esearch to gather data on the unique challenges and needs of gender and sexual minorities and women. This research informs PCHEI’s advocacy efforts and helps them shape policies that benefit the communities they serve. They also publish research findings and share the knowledge they’ve gathered.
• Human rights and gender-based violence intervention: PCHEI focuses on sensitisation and provides paralegal services.
• Sexual and reproductive health: PCHEI provides safe and inclusive services and sexual health workshops.
• Capacity building and empowerment: PCHEI offers a range of educational programmes, workshops and vocational training. They also connect individuals with mentors and networks to facilitate personal and professional growth.

Contact

Website
Email: positivechampionsinitiative@gmail.com
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
X/Twitter
TikTok

Videos and Reports by PCHEI

Watch this video by PCHEI on what it’s like to be a trans woman in Nigeria:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Bbbo2jRQ9Vf2Jfnl3NoFVuHsRS4w3RXr/viewRead PCHEI’s Project Impact Report

Read the Intersex Awareness in Ogun State, South Western Nigeria: Perspectives From Health Workers and the General Population, compiled by PCHEI.

Founded in Nigeria in March 2022, Supporting Trans, Intersex, and Gender Non-Conforming People Initiative (STAG) was initially a peer-support, community organising and safe space network for trans, intersex, gender diverse and gender non-conforming people from around 2018/2019. STAG Initiative works with womxn, trans, intersex, gender-diverse, gender non-
conforming people, and other underserved LGBTQI+ community members in Nigeria. The network was begun by Kelsey Brookes, Claudia, and Gloria Henshaw (Juniper), and 16 other trans, intersex, gender diverse and LGBQ+ community members. The organisation’s work particularly centres people who experience multiple layers of exclusion, including trans women, trans men, intersex persons, gender-diverse persons, LGBTQI+ youth, survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), people living with HIV, sex workers, displaced persons, and community members facing homelessness, family rejection, violence, health exclusion, and legal insecurity.

STAG Initiative works at the intersection of advocacy, empowerment, safety, health justice, and human rights for womxn, trans, intersex, and gender non-conforming people in Nigeria. Their main work includes crisis response, safe housing support, gender-based violence response, legal and psychosocial referrals, SRHR and HIV-related advocacy, community documentation, leadership development, movement building, and policy advocacy. They also create safe spaces where community members can access care, information, support, and collective power. STAG was born out of a deep collective frustration with the violence and discrimination faced by the communities mentioned above, and their work is rooted in ensuring that no one is left behind or erased. STAG advocates for justice, provides safe spaces and services, supports GBV survivors, strengthens community-led crisis response, empowers marginalised communities, and challenges the systems that produce violence, exclusion, and discrimination. STAG was registered in 2025.

Vision

A society where everyone, including trans, intersex, and gender non-conforming people, can thrive and have full access to comprehensive healthcare, education, and empowerment, when they want it and how they want it. A future where no one has to hide who they are, explain their existence, or negotiate their dignity before accessing care, safety, education, or opportunity.

Co-founder, Kelsey Brookes says,

“As a visionary leader, I strive to create inclusive spaces and drive systemic change to ensure that every individual, regardless of gender identity, can thrive and be treated with dignity and respect.”

Source: https://www.vitalvoices.org/fellow/kingsley-kalu/

Mission

To create an inclusive society where anyone, regardless of gender identity, can live freely and safely.

Goals/Objectives

• Promote the safety, dignity, and human rights of trans, intersex, gender-diverse, gender non- conforming people, and other underserved LGBTQI+ communities in Nigeria.
• Provide crisis response, safe housing, psychosocial support, legal referrals, and survivor-centred care for community members facing violence, homelessness, family rejection, or insecurity.
• Advance access to inclusive healthcare, SRHR services, HIV prevention, treatment literacy, and gender-affirming information and support.
• Strengthen community leadership, especially among trans, intersex, and gender-diverse young people.
• Document community experiences, rights violations, movement histories, and evidence for advocacy and policy change.
• Build solidarity across generations so that older and younger trans, intersex, and gender-diverse activists can share knowledge, context, experience, strategies, and skills.
• Advocate for laws, policies, systems, and services that respect bodily autonomy, inclusion, safety, and justice.

Focus areas

• Crisis Response and Safe Housing — STAG supports trans, intersex, gender-diverse, gender non-conforming, and LGBTQI+ community members experiencing violence, homelessness, family rejection, threats, forced displacement, or urgent safety needs. This includes safe housing, emergency relocation support, case management, and referral coordination.
• Gender-Based Violence and Legal Protection — STAG provides survivor-centred support for community members affected by gender-based violence, intimate partner violence, blackmail, family violence, public harassment, and rights violations. The organisation also supports referrals to legal, psychosocial, and protection services.
• SRHR, HIV, and Health Justice — STAG advocates for access to inclusive healthcare, HIV services, SRHR information, treatment literacy, mental health support, and gender-affirming care information. Their work responds to the
  exclusion of trans, intersex, and gender-diverse people from mainstream health systems.
• Trans and Intersex Movement Building — STAG creates safe spaces for leadership development, peer learning, advocacy training, and community mobilisation. The organisation is particularly interested in strengthening intergenerational learning within the trans and intersex movement, because of the widening gap between older and younger activists. This gap is leading to the loss of knowledge, political context, lived experience, advocacy skills, and movement memory.
• Documentation, Research, and Data-Driven Advocacy — STAG documents lived realities, human rights violations, health access barriers, and community histories. The organisation uses evidence to support advocacy, policy engagement, donor engagement, and movement learning.
• Climate Justice and Social Protection — STAG integrates gender and climate justice by recognising how crisis, flooding, displacement, poverty, and environmental insecurity affect trans, intersex, gender-diverse, and other
  marginalised communities.
• Economic Empowerment and Education — STAG supports access to skills, education, empowerment opportunities, and leadership pathways for underserved community members.

Contact

Email: info@staginitiative.org / tgnpn.ng@gmail.com
+2348137760417
Facebook
Instagram
X (Twitter)
TikTok
YouTube

Founded on 3 February 2022, Hope Trans Initiative is non-profit advocacy organisation founded by trans individuals who had the passion and desire to support intersex, trans and gender non-conforming (ITGNC) people to gain access to affirming care and equal opportunities. The organisation was founded as a support group by Faith Blessing, Beryl Achieng, Brian Muchere, Vicky Masinde and Rinah Olukusi due to lack of an inclusive organising within Kenya for rural and peri-urban areas along the coast of Kenya in Mombasa County that could provide safe spaces, gender-affirming services and advocate for ending the injustices that this segment of the community face. The organisation is registered, but not as an LGBTQIA+, trans or intersex organisation due to government regulations.

Country Context

The support group was formed to support ITGNC persons that were vulnerable to lack of safety and security, and further exploitation based on the myths around homosexuality and its relation to gender identity. According to Hope Trans Initiative, homosexuals and gender variant people in Kenya, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas,

“are largely depicted as a taboo, curse, devil worshippers and repugnant to the culture of our society with majority being denied their right to an identity, suffer stigma and discrimination and sexual violation and social marginalization. This has kept them from socializing and being active members of the community thus hindering the development of self-confidence, and in-turn leading to social anxiety and depression.

Specifically, within healthcare setting, medical professionals, directly and indirectly, discriminate against ITGNC persons by miss-gendering individuals, breaking confidentiality at facilities, and asking intrusive questions. On the other hand, affirming health care for intersex, transgender and gender nonconforming persons is unavailable while at the same time, sex reassignment and HIV programming rarely considers the situation of ITGNC persons. Additionally, ITGNC persons within coastal region face wide spread of violation spanning from arbitrary arrest and detention, humiliating body checks and frisking to determine one’s biological sex, false accusation of intent to impersonate of false pretense as our physical anatomy might not match our gender expression and identity and by virtue of having bodies that often fall outside of the culturally accepted norms.”

Vision

A resilient and vibrant society committed to equality, diversity and inclusion irrespective of sexual and gender orientation.

Mission

To foster a sense of belonging to eliminate all forms of inequalities through integrated programmes, with the emphasis being on gender affirming, establishing a safe space, providing training and advocacy, awareness raising and sensitisation and, psycho-social support and stakeholder’s engagement to enhance a society committed to equity, diversity and inclusion for holistic empowerment and social change.

Goals/Objectives

• To provide holistic, effective and reliable care and support for ITGNC persons within the Kenyan coastal region, spanning from safe spaces, psycho-social support, and ITGNC-friendly counselling services.
• To advocate for the human rights of ITGNC people and change the attitudes of the society towards sexual and gender minorities to end stigma, discrimination and all forms of violence and social marginalisation against sexual and gender minorities that deny these communities an opportunity to live dignified lives to their full potential.
• To galvanise a sustainable, self-sufficient and resilient movement of ITGNC people to promote access to gender-affirming healthcare services.
• To step in the gap of other similar organisations that overlook rural and per-urban coastal regions and to advocate for the rights and equal treatment of ITGNC
  persons who have had lived experience of deeply rooted stigma, rights violation and social exclusion in order to promote the overall well-being through psychosocial and socio-economic empowerment.
• To provide a platform for ITGNC persons to assert their power in numbers energy and imagination to transform society to be a beacon of hope for all its people and to build a better society.

Programmatic Areas

• Advocacy: Facilitate advocacy campaigns to advocate for the fundamental needs of ITGNC persons and to send an unambiguous message to the communities they serve that all humans, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, deserve the same respect, protection, and realisation of their rights while challenging existing power struggles to improve care, demand resources and influence policies wherever they are needed as we remain open to equality, diversity and at the same time safeguarding confidentiality and lobbying for institutional policy changes so that they remain resolute in advancing justice, often in the face of ongoing violence, inequity, and exclusion.
• Psycho-social support: Provide access to competent psycho-social support for ITGNC persons within the Kenyan coastal region through counselling, formation of mentorship and support groups that are specific to the needs of ITGNC persons, support provision of access to psychiatric care
  and rehabilitation, and facilitating a holistic approach to mental and broader individual well-being that enables a healthy environment for an individual to manage normal stressors of life and identify positive coping mechanisms.
• Awareness building and sensitisation: To increase awareness and understanding of ITGNC people and share knowledge to empower the community and to help service providers, professionals, families and the public to better understand ITGNC needs.
• Safety and security: To reduce violence against ITGNC within coastal region through community-led safety initiatives focused on improving conditions for people most affected by systemic violence and discrimination within ITGNC communities, based on their sexual and gender orientation/expression. On the other hand, we work to increase ITGNC affirming protections that promote full inclusion and equal opportunity while increasing social inclusion and public support for the ITGNC community.
• Organisational system strengthening: aimed at building a strong, dynamic, resilient institution that is effective and efficient in delivering its mandate.

Contact

Email: hopetransinitiative@gmail.com
Facebook

Founded in Nigeria on 13 January 2022 by Mx Rihanna Savage, Nuchi Nweneka, Mathew and Peyton Ageless, Harmony Caregivers Foundation (HCF) is a trans-led feminist organisation in South-West Nigeria working to advance the rights, health, safety, and socioeconomic wellbeing of marginalised communities, particularly transgender, intersex, gender-diverse persons, women, and young people. HCF focuses on policy reforms, advocacy, human rights and sexual and reproductive heath service delivery for trans, intersex and gender diverse people in Nigeria. HCF is a safe haven and a voice for the voiceless, turning vulnerability into strength and isolation into community. The organisation was registered in 2023.

Vision

To have a society where indigent, vulnerable and marginalised persons thrive in a positive and in an inclusive environment with their health, rights and well-being respected and protected.

Mission

To create an enabling environment where all marginalised persons regardless of behaviours can be free of discrimination, stigma, molestation, harassment, rape and gender dysphoria through strong and visible activism, advocacy, sensitisation, awareness campaigns, empowerment, mental, sexual and reproductive heath service delivery, seminars and capacity building workshops, for all to grow and thrive.

Goals/Objectives

• Protect trans individuals from gender-based violence and discrimination.
• Provide mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) tailored to their unique experiences.
• Empower trans persons through skills training, economic opportunities, and leadership development.
• Amplify trans voices and advocate for legal recognition and human rights.

Focus areas

• Gender-based violence (GBV/SGBV) prevention and response
• Case management, referrals, psychosocial support, survivor-centered services, and advocacy to address violence affecting trans, intersex, and gender-diverse persons.
• Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)
• Access to inclusive SRHR information and services, HIV prevention, reproductive health education, and rights-based advocacy through initiatives such as IGE-SRH.
• Mental health and ssychosocial support (MHPSS)
• Trauma-informed counselling, peer support groups, safe spaces, and mental wellbeing interventions for marginalised populations.
• Advocacy, human rights, and policy reform
• Community mobilisation, stakeholder engagement, strategic advocacy, and policy reform efforts to promote equality, dignity, and protection of LGBTQIA+ persons.
• Economic empowerment and livelihoods
• Skills acquisition, entrepreneurship support, social enterprise development, and economic inclusion programmes for vulnerable populations.

Trans and intersex-focused projects

Through these programmes, HCF works to reduce violence, improve health outcomes, strengthen community resilience, and promote the full inclusion and dignity of transgender, intersex, and gender-diverse persons in Nigeria:

• A member of the QuestPro Women Foundation Initiative: a Pan African organisation focused on the protection and preservation of human rights of all persons. Harmony Caregivers Foundation has worked with QuestPro women Foundation since 2025 to provide GBV/SGBV, MHPSS, Storytelling and Legal Services for marginalised women in all diversities (Trans, Intersex and Gender-diverse persons included). These communities lacked this services and it has greatly affected the inclusion, development, growth and participation of the community and the general society at large.
• Supports transgender, intersex, and gender-diverse persons affected by GBV/SGBV through case management, legal referrals, MHPSS, emergency support, and community-led advocacy. IGE-SRH Project
• Strengthen access to inclusive SRHR information and services for trans, intersex, and gender-diverse persons while advancing advocacy and policy reforms that address barriers to healthcare and human rights.
• Community safe space and leadership programmes
• Provide mentorship, leadership development, rights awareness, and peer-led support for transgender, intersex, and gender-diverse community members.
• Safety and security for trans, intersex and gender-diverse persons in Nigeria
• Mapping of hotspot or dangerous areas where trans, intersex and gender-diverse persons are commonly kitoed (harrassed, kidnapped, harmed) and how to mitigate this danger and apprehend the culprits.

Contact

Email: Harmonycaregiversfoundation@gmail.com
+2347051690993 / +2348159361075
Instagram
YouTube

Kaya Intersex and Trans Initiative Kenya (KITI) was founded in 2022 by Hazary Abdalla to address the glaring gap in representation and advocacy for intersex and trans individuals in the South Coast region of Kenya, particularly around Likoni, Kwale county and their environs. This gap has contributed to continued widespread double stigma and discrimination, misrepresentation and limited access to essential services for Kenya’s Sexual orientation Gender Identity and Expression (SOGIE) communities. 

KITI’s slogan, “A chair is still a chair even if no one is sitting there,” embodies the organisation’s belief in the inherent value and dignity of every individual, regardless of their gender identity or societal acceptance. KITI envisions a society that embraces harmony, equity, and co-existences by promotion of fundamental human rights and freedom of the SOGIE community through sensitisation towards the attainment of an all-inclusive society regardless of their diverse constituents. The organisation was registered in December 2024.

Vision

To see a future where gender self determination and valid expression is seen as a basic right and matter of common human dignity.

Mission

To alleviate double stigma, discrimination, and the promotion of access to integrated sexual reproductive healthcare services for the intersex and trans communities through: advocacy, institutional strengthening, health promotion, capacity building and socio-support networking.

Thematic Areas

• Advocacy: Focuses on raising awareness, challenging stigma, and promoting the rights of intersex and transgender individuals through policy influence, community sensitisation, and stakeholder engagement.
• Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR): Aims to ensure access to inclusive, non-discriminatory SRHR services and information tailored to the needs of intersex and transgender persons, while addressing barriers like stigma and lack of knowledge among healthcare providers.
• Security: Addresses the safety and protection of intersex and transgender individuals from violence, discrimination, and marginalisation through capacity building, legal support, and advocacy for inclusive laws and policies.
• Health, including HIV and Other Infectious Diseases: Promotes access to comprehensive healthcare services, including HIV prevention, treatment, care, and addressing other infectious diseases, while emphasising mental health and psychosocial support.
• Economic Development and Empowerment: Supports intersex and transgender individuals in gaining economic independence through skills training, entrepreneurship opportunities, and access to financial resources to reduce vulnerability and promote sustainable livelihoods.
• Research and Documentation: Documenting the lived experiences of intersex and transgender individuals to inform evidence-based advocacy and programming.
  

Contact

Email: kayaintersexandtrans@gmail.com 
+254742799243
Facebook
X (Twitter)

The TransHuman Organization was founded in Kenya in 2022 by Nekesa Mukamba. It is a gender non-conforming-led organisation committed to advancing social and economic justice for rural-urban transgender, intersex, and gender non-conforming persons within Eldoret and Uasin Gishu in Kenya. Rooted in lived experience and community power, TransHuman Organization works to dismantle systemic barriers, challenge discrimination, and create pathways to equity through advocacy, education, and direct support. At the heart of their work is a deep commitment to centering the voices and leadership of those most impacted by injustice. The organisation believes that true liberation is only possible when transgender, intersex, and gender non-conforming persons are empowered to lead, shape policy, and access the resources they need to live full, autonomous lives. Through community organising, coalition building, and strategic advocacy, the organisation strives to create lasting change that uplifts our communities and reimagines a more just and inclusive future for all. They have applied for registration and are still awaiting the outcome.

Vision

A just, inclusive, and equitable society where transgender, intersex, and gender non-conforming persons live with dignity, safety, opportunity, and full participation in all aspects of social, economic, and political life.

Mission

To advance the rights, well-being, and empowerment of rural and urban transgender, intersex, and gender non-conforming persons in Eldoret and across Kenya by challenging discrimination, strengthening community leadership, promoting social and economic justice, and providing advocacy, education, and direct support that enables individuals and communities to thrive.

Project values and focus

The project has 3 values and focus:

• Dignity and Human Rights – Every person deserves respect, autonomy, and equal protection under the law.
• Community Leadership – Those most affected by injustice should lead the solutions.
• Equity and Inclusion – Working to remove barriers and create opportunities for all gender-diverse people.
• Social Justice – Challenging systems of discrimination and inequality.
• Solidarity and Collaboration – Lasting change is built through partnerships and collective action.
• Integrity and Accountability – Upholding transparency, trust, and responsible stewardship.
• Empowerment – Strengtheing individual and community capacity to advocate for their rights and well-being.

Project Resource Hub

The Transhuman Project Resource Hub has 4 categories:

• Social and cultural hub
• Medical hub
• Economic and sustainability hub
• Legal and political protection hub

The resources are available in English, Swahili and French.

Contact

Website
+254702168652
Email: transhumanproject2022@gmail.com
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter

Fondée à Madagascar en 2022 par AL, Lalaina et Haga, Queer Place œuvre pour et avec la communauté LGBTQIA+. Il s’agit d’une organisation communautaire qui s’emploie à créer des espaces sûrs, inclusifs et favorisant l’autonomisation des personnes queer à Madagascar. L’organisation concentre ses efforts sur le renforcement de la communauté, le soutien à la santé mentale, le renforcement des capacités, le plaidoyer et la sensibilisation afin de réduire la stigmatisation, la discrimination et la violence à l’encontre des personnes LGBTQIA+. À travers des activités animées par des pairs, des discussions, des ateliers, des événements culturels et des initiatives de plaidoyer, Queer Place aide les personnes LGBTQIA+ à renforcer leur résilience et leur solidarité, ainsi qu’à accroître leur visibilité. L’organisation a été officiellement enregistrée en 2023.

Founded in Madagascar in 2022 by AL, Lalaina and Haga, Queer Place works for and with the LGBTQIA+ community. Queer Place is a community-based organisation working to create safe, inclusive, and empowering spaces for queer people in Madagascar. The organisation focuses on community building, mental health support, capacity strengthening, advocacy, and awareness-raising to reduce stigma, discrimination, and violence against LGBTQIA+ people. Through peer-led activities, discussions, workshops, cultural events, and advocacy initiatives, Queer Place supports LGBTQIA+ individuals in building resilience, solidarity, and visibility. The organisation was registered in 2023.

La vision / Vision

Un Madagascar où les personnes LGBTQIA+ peuvent vivre dans la dignité, la sécurité, l’égalité et la liberté.

A Madagascar where LGBTQIA+ people can live with dignity, safety, equality, and freedom.

Mission

Autonomiser les communautés LGBTQIA+ à Madagascar en créant des espaces sûrs, en renforçant la solidarité communautaire, en fournissant des ressources de soutien, en défendant les droits humains et en promouvant l’acceptation sociale et l’inclusion.

To empower LGBTQIA+ communities in Madagascar by creating safe spaces, strengthening community solidarity, providing support resources, advocating for human rights, and promoting social acceptance and inclusion.

Buts/Objectifs / Goals/Objectives

• Créer des espaces sûrs et inclusifs où les personnes LGBTQIA+ peuvent tisser des liens, partager leurs expériences et accéder à du soutien.
• Renforcer les capacités et la résilience des communautés queer grâce à des ateliers, des discussions et des activités d’apprentissage entre pairs.
• Promouvoir la santé mentale et le bien-être des personnes LGBTQIA+.
• Sensibiliser aux droits des personnes LGBTQIA+ et lutter contre la stigmatisation et la discrimination.
• Plaider pour une meilleure reconnaissance, protection et inclusion des personnes LGBTQIA+ à Madagascar.
• Soutenir la créativité et la culture queer ainsi que les initiatives portées par la communauté.

• Create safe and inclusive spaces where LGBTQIA+ people can connect, share experiences, and access support.
• Strengthen the capacity and resilience of queer communities through workshops, discussions, and peer-learning activities.
• Promote mental health and wellbeing among LGBTQIA+ people.
• Raise awareness about LGBTQIA+ rights and challenge stigma and discrimination.
• Advocate for greater recognition, protection, and inclusion of LGBTQIA+ people in Madagascar.
• Support queer creativity, culture, and community-led initiatives.

Domaines prioritaires / Focus areas

• Renforcement de la communauté et espaces sûrs : Queer Place organise régulièrement des activités communautaires, notamment des groupes de discussion, des rencontres conviviales et des espaces permettant aux personnes LGBTQIA+ de tisser des liens et de trouver un soutien par les pairs.
• Santé mentale et bien-être : Queer Place favorise les échanges et les activités autour des défis de santé mentale rencontrés par les personnes LGBTQIA+ (isolement, stigmatisation, discrimination, absence de réseaux de soutien sécurisants).
• Renforcement des capacités : Queer Place organise des ateliers visant à renforcer les compétences, la confiance en soi, le leadership et la capacité des membres de la communauté à défendre leurs droits.
• Plaidoyer et sensibilisation : Queer Place œuvre pour une meilleure compréhension des enjeux LGBTQIA+ auprès des acteurs de la société civile, des communautés et, à terme, des institutions, tout en luttant contre la discrimination et en promouvant les droits humains.

• Community Building and Safe Spaces: Queer Place organises regular community activities, including discussion groups, social gatherings, and spaces where LGBTQIA+ people can build connections and find peer support.
• Mental Health and Wellbeing: Queer Place facilitates conversations and activities addressing mental health challenges experienced by LGBTQIA+ people, including isolation, stigma, discrimination, and lack of safe support systems.
• Capacity Strengthening: Queer Place organises workshops aimed at strengthening community members’ skills, confidence, leadership, and ability to advocate for their rights.
• Advocacy and Awareness Raising: Queer Place works to increase understanding of LGBTQIA+ issues among civil society actors, communities, and eventually institutions, while challenging discrimination and promoting human rights.

Projets trans et intersexes / Trans and intersex projects

Queer Place a pour objectif d’assurer l’inclusion des personnes transgenres et intersexes au sein de ses espaces communautaires et de ses actions de plaidoyer. L’organisation reconnaît les vulnérabilités spécifiques auxquelles ces personnes sont confrontées — notamment la discrimination, l’exclusion sociale et les obstacles à l’accès aux services de soutien — et cherche à renforcer la visibilité, la solidarité et la protection de ces communautés à Madagascar.

Queer Place aims to ensure that transgender and intersex people are included in its community spaces and advocacy efforts. The organisation recognises the specific vulnerabilities faced by trans and intersex people, including discrimination, social exclusion, and barriers to accessing support services, and seeks to strengthen visibility, solidarity, and protection for these communities within Madagascar.

Queer Place dans les médias / Queer Place in the media

• Feon Queer — Un podcast queer malgache qui partage des discussions, des expériences, des récits et des points de vue de personnes LGBTQIA+ à Madagascar.
  A Malagasy queer podcast sharing discussions, experiences, stories, and perspectives of LGBTQIA+ people in Madagascar. 
• AVANA Program — Un projet par, pour et avec la communauté LGBTQIA+ lancé en septembre 2025.
  A project by, for and with the LGBTQIA+ community started in September 2025 
• 76 Crimes en Français — Madagascar : un revers pour les droits LGBT+ dans l’Océan Indien
  Madagascar: a setback for LGBT+ rights in the Indian Ocean
  

Contacter / Contact

Website
Email: queerplacemdg@gmail.com
Facebook
Instagram

On Monday 7 June 2021, Julius Kaggwa and Liesl Theron, co-founders of the Trans & Intersex History Africa Digital Archive, presented a history of African trans and intersex movements between 2010 and 2016 as part of the “Feminism and Social Movements in the Global South: Queer Histories in the Global South” panel. This presentation was part of the first introductions to the Trans & Intersex History Africa Digital Archive, which the two speakers, alongside Victor Mukasa launched officially later in 2021.

Presentation abstract

Trans and intersex history line in Africa – a focus on Southern and Eastern Africa

LGBTIQ history has remained largely silent about African trans and intersex people, with the exception of scandalised depictions of trans women who are, according to the media in many African countries, only viewed as ‘female imposters’ committing fraud or reduced to a spectacle to be humored. Several scholars have endeavored to build a canon of knowledge on the existence of homosexuality, same-sex relations and gender nonconformity in a pre-colonial time, throughout Africa. This paper aims to bring voice to trans and intersex histories, accomplishments by individuals and organisations. The collection of data is an ongoing process the two co-authors embarked on to ensure these stories are told authentically by African trans and intersex activists. There is great opportunity to draw on connections made at this conference between scholars from the Global South and Global North to carry forward the preservation of a rich trans and intersex historical canon, led by Global South voices. The long-term working relationship between Liesl Theron and Julius Kaggwa developed in 2008 and superseded organisational alliance, geographical location and is a result of an activist relationship and fond friendship that crisscross “the personal becomes the political”. Theron and Kaggwa, the two founders of respectively the Support Initiative for People with Atypical Sex Development (SIPD), Uganda and Gender DynamiX (GDX), South Africa were on a pursuit for several years to find a home to publish their collection of African trans and intersex history. Our timeline is one of contemporary history with its first entry being 1980 and weave through the mid-2010’s with all the founding dates of the early trans and intersex organizations, individuals’ accomplishments in sport, art, music and other private domains as well as passionate contributions towards positive change for trans and intersex struggles on the continent. 

In June 2020 the Ugandan LGBTQIA+ refugees in the Kakuma Refugee Camp reached out to activist Victor Mukasa, saying

“Victor, we are dying, we are dying in the refugee camp”.

Not much had changed since the last time Victor had worked with the refugees in 2014, even though global activists and organisations had become involved. By 2020 Victor had established The Victor Mukasa Podcast and Talk Show and decided to feature the plight of the refugees in a live conversation.

The Kuchus (a Swahili word roughly translating to “queer”, adopted by the Ugandan LGBTQIA+ refugees in the Camp) needed food, bedding, medicines — everything. Victor started fundraising campaigns again using crowdfunding and approached targeted donors. Close to $70,000 USD was raised.

The other thing Victor did was to mobilise resources for psychosocial support, which was a growing need due to the trauma caused by the continuous attacks and previous attacks. Victor mobilised psychologists from the US, Europe, Australia and Israel who would counsel online on a pro-bono basis to support the community members. They would themselves come up with a schedule for sessions and each therapist could indicate how many hours per week they could donate to counsel the Kuchu refugees. There was a team of about 15 therapists. Attention was also given to trauma counselling for children. 

Later, resources were used to start a school in Block 13 (a section of the Camp with the highest population of LGBTQIA+ refugees) for the children as they were refused entry to the general schools and also beaten for being children of LGBTQIA+ people. Kuchu teachers from Block 13 mobilised for teachers who came in from outside. Victor also organised entertainment for the children, such as puppet shows, movie screenings and sometimes when activists from Europe came, they brought their children to play with the kids in Block 13. 

A 2021 report, “The Challenges Facing LGBTQI+ Refugees in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya” by the Organization for Refuge, Asylum & Migration (ORAM) and Rainbow Railroad, highlights the plight of the refugees within Block 13.

There was also a Kuchu refugee, Regina, (who has now moved to Ottawa) who was a nurse and she and another refugee who is a pharmacist, started a medical program, procuring antibiotics, pain tablets and first aid kits to help the Kuchus when there were attacked. 

On the political side, Victor started calling on advocates in Africa and beyond. That is when the Consortium was found. The Consortium was made up of organisations such as the Black LGBTQ Migrant Project, Jass Associated, Coalition of African Lesbians, The Victor Mukasa Show, Triangle Project and the Global Interfaith Network (GIN). Pan Africa ILGA (PAI) was also a part of the Coalition for a period. This larger group of organisations that joined the cause took the advocacy to a higher level. The Coalition started a campaign, #FreeBlock13, which raised the issues faced by the Kuchus, but also served as a fundraising platform. Members inside Block 13 in Kakuma Refugee Camp could use the website to also share their stories and personal experiences of living in Block 13. 

On the Victor Mukasa Show, Victor hosted a special talk at the start of the Coalition’s Free Block 13 Week of Action; April 7 – 13.

Lucretia, a Ugandan trans woman based in Kakuma Camp, wrote a heartfelt essay to an online news blog about her friend Chriton Atuhwera who was known as known as “Trinidad Jerry”, who died in the UNHRC’s hospital after an arson attack in Kakuma’s Block 13. 

Watch more videos from The Victor Mukasa Show about the Kakuma crisis.

In March 2020, The Victor Mukasa Show was broadcast live for the first time. Ugandan trans and LGBTI activist, Victor Mukasa envisioned the show as a space that would bring emerging issues for LGBTIQ+ people from the continent and the Diaspora to light. It aims to feature everything Queer and African, ranging from education, activism, arts, politics, social lives and everything that involves queer Africans. Victor’s vision for The Victor Mukasa Show is that it be a meeting place for queers and allies and a source of information, for activists, for their allies, local communities, legislators, and human rights organisations. The Victor Mukasa Show started off as a weekly podcast, on platforms such as Anchor and Spotify and later migrated to Facebook and YouTube. 

Later on, in March 2023, when the Anti-Homosexuality Bill (AHB) was reintroduced in Uganda at Parliament level, Victor branched The Victor Mukasa Show out to have a more general focus — to open a chapter specifically addressing the Ugandan community. This new division of his talk shows is called Ekimeeza K’abaLaGaBaTa (Queer Table Talk). This segment of the show is in Luganda (the spoken language in Uganda) and aimed at the general public. Queer Table Talk was introduced as a direct result of the AHB (this was before it became an Act of Law) as the suggestions within the proposed Bill was to not only prosecute LGBTIQ+ people but also to silence them and LGBTIQ+ organisations by preventing workshops, awareness raising sessions, meetings, sensitisation sessions, and even the production of informative material was to become illegal. Along with this silencing, the rightwing conservatives also distributed propaganda and misinformation, and stereotyping was on the rise. Victor realised that Ugandan LGBTIQ+ activists within Uganda could do nothing about this, that it would be illegal to address it, and that there was no way to counter the propaganda. This is how the Ekimeeza K’abaLaGaBaTa (Queer Table Talk) was born.

Victor says that The Queer Table Talk continues to deliver great results, with the introduction of the show to TikTok, which has increased viewers and engagement, as well as the fact that the language used (besides Luganda) makes the talks and topics accessible to everyone — not just activists, but the women who sells food on the street side and the boda-boda taxi driver:

“Here we don’t talk about United Nation Declarations and technical terms, we speak the language people understand”.

During the show, Victor has a lot of back and forth communication in Luganda with heterosexual community members. As Victor says

“The only thing that separates us, are the lies that they have been told about us!” 

Watch our interview with Victor about the first Victor Mukasa Show

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
Facebook

Founded in 2019, Upendo Rights Advocacy Initiative – Malaba (URAI), is non-governmental organisation that serves the rural Ugandan community of LBQ women, intersex, gender non-conforming and other gender diverse persons. URAI was founded against the background of no services for LGBTI persons in Malaba and the perception that the LGBTI community is urban based. Yet LGBTI, people live in all contexts, including small towns and rural areas. LGBTI people in rural contexts experience unique and diverse challenges, with distinctive human rights, livelihood and healthcare needs that receive little attention at the national level, even with the considerable work that has already been done on LGBTI human rights, livelihoods and health situations in urban areas. Upendo was registered limited by guarantee in November 2021.

Mission

To represent, mobilise and empower communities of rural LBQ women, intersex, gender non-conforming and other gender diverse individuals through advocacy, inclusiveness, creating solidarity, and promoting leadership. URAI does this work through wellness and livelihood programmes, and advocacy initiatives to engage different stakeholders on the issues that these rural communities face.

Objectives

• Advocate for policy changes to protect rural LBQ women, intersex, gender non-conforming and other gender diverse individuals.
• Mobilise rural LGBTI communities through workshops, campaigns, and alliances. 
• Empower LGBTI individuals with skills training and resources for self-advocacy. 
• Foster inclusiveness and solidarity within rural communities. 
• Promote leadership among LGBTI individuals in rural areas. ⁠
• Address unique challenges through research and targeted programmes.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to improve services and support for rural LGBTI communities.

Contact

Email: amollocarol59@gmail.com
Instagram
X (Twitter)

Founded in 2019 in South Sudan, Rise Initiative for Women’s Right Advocacy (RiWA) works primarily with the LGBTIQ community, with a specific focus on trans women, intersex people and children, as well as youth and survivors of gender-based violence. RiWA promotes and protects the rights of  LGBTIQ persons through advocacy, human rights education, psychosocial support, and leadership development. We also use sports, particularly women’s football, as a platform to empower young women and advocate for equality and inclusion. RiWA was registered in 2021.

Vision

To envisage a peaceful country offering the LGBTIQ community an opportunity to participate in the socio-economic development decisions and activities in South Sudan where they are accorded full and equal dignity without prejudice.

Mission

To empower and amplify the voices of women, girls, and marginalised communities through human rights education, advocacy, and leadership development, fostering equality and social justice in South Sudan.

Goals/Objectives

• Promote gender equality and womxn’s empowerment.
• Protect and advance the rights of LGBTIQ persons and other marginalised groups.
• Prevent and respond to gender-based violence through awareness and psychosocial support.
• Strengthen youth leadership and participation in social change.
• Use sports and creative platforms for community mobilisation and advocacy.

Focus Areas

• Gender Equality and Womxn’s Empowerment
• Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)
• Human Rights and Access to Justice
• Mental Health and Psychosocial Support
• Sports for Empowerment and Advocacy
• Human Rights Documentation and Protection

Trans and Intersex Programmes

Trans programme

RiWA provides dedicated support to the transgender community in South Sudan, who face high levels of stigma, violence, and exclusion. RiWA’s work includes emergency protection, safe shelter referrals, psychosocial support, and accompaniment for those facing threats or abuse.

The organisation also documents human rights violations against trans people and uses this evidence for advocacy at local and national levels. Through leadership training and community organising, RiWA empowers trans activists to participate in decision-making and strengthen their visibility and safety.

Key areas of our support include:

• Emergency assistance and protection.
• Psychosocial support and healing spaces.
• Documentation of human rights violations.
• Leadership development and capacity building.

Intersex programme

RiWA’s Intersex Community of South Sudan (ICS) Initiative is aimed at addressing issues affecting intersex children and persons in South Sudan. This Initiative is the first of its kind in South Sudan, and is focused on visibility, protection, and empowerment of intersex people. RiWA creates safe spaces for intersex individuals and families, facilitates peer-support groups, and conducts community awareness to challenge stigma and harmful practices, including non-consensual medical interventions.

The Initiative focuses on:

• Community building and peer support.
• Advocacy against harmful practices.
• Research and data collection.
• Medical community engagement.
• Empowerment and leadership.

Contact

Website
+211915217117
Email: riwasouthsudan@gmail.com / info@riwasouthsudan.org
Facebook
Twitter/X
Instagram
LinkedIn
YouTube