Sexual diversity: An interview with the Gay and Lesbian Coalition of Kenya (GALCK)

GTZ has recently partnered with GALCK in the production of a short video which gives a snap-shot of the current situation of gay people in Kenya as well as challenges faced in society. The theme of ‘diversity’ cuts across the 4-minute video and highlights human rights for all.

GTZ supports GALCK in capacity development, networking and advocacy for sexual minorities.

Some notes to go with the short video

The cultural, religious and ethnic dynamics around the subject of homosexuality continues to create controversy in the legal and political spheres of Kenya. To be homosexual is still identified as unnatural, ungodly, a taboo while stigmatization and hostility remain. Recently, treats and physical attacks against gay men appear increasing. The situation is particularly challenging to the public health discourse where HIV infection among gay men contributes significantly to the HIV epidemic in Kenya.

In response to these challenges, populations who identify themselves as gay have come together to gain voice in dealing with the issues in Kenya, such as the GALCK. It was set up in 2006, and is a coalition of 5 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex (LGBTI) organisations that work to promote recognition and acceptance of LGBTI individuals and to create a safe and ena-bling environment for LGBTI organisations.

The GTZ health sector programme targets sexual minorities such as LGBTI and Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) in its sexual and reproductive health interventions. The programme has supported the Coalition to develop a strategic plan addressing the needs of its members and de-fining its methodology and action areas for Human and Health Rights advocacy for the LGBTI community. This partnership, now extended through support of the German BACKUP Initiative, is a significant contribution to the fight against stigma, discrimination and social exclusion of persons on the basis of their sexual orientation.

GTZ has also been supporting Art2Be, a local not for profit organisation that combines art and psychotherapy to help individuals and communities deal with personal challenges, cope with their HIV infection and discrimination related to homosexuality. Art2Be supported the production of the video clip.

The interview

The interview with David Kuria highlights the challenges faced by gay people in Kenya through the social, political and legal dimensions. The interview particularly highlights the perspectives of ‘diversity’ and how it shapes society.

David Kuria has faced various violations from the Kenyan society just for the fact that he is openly gay and advocates for the rights of gay people in Kenya. David Kuria has been a lecturer at Catholic University of East Africa in the discipline of marketing. He is currently the Manager of the Gay and Lesbian Coalition of Kenya.

Involved organisations

• Gay and Lesbian Coalition of Kenya (GALCK)
  www.galck.org
• Art2Be
  www.art2bebodymaps.com