Protecting Ugandan LGBTIQ Refugees in Kenya

Sage Kuo is organizing this fundraiser.

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Minority Defenders Forum (MDF) is working hard to provide critical refuge for Ugandan LGBTIQ refugees fleeing the draconian Anti-Homosexuality Act passed in May 2023.

This legislation criminalizes same-sex relations, leading to widespread persecution, violence, and displacement.

MDF currently shelters 20 Ugandan LGBTIQ refugees, including 7 children, facing severe threats to their lives and safety. Among them is Nasaala Doreen, a prominent LGBTIQ rights activist and MDF's Executive Director, along with her partner and 2 young sons.

These individuals have fled Uganda seeking safety in Kenya, but they face significant challenges:

Lack of Refugee Status: The Kenyan government does not recognize sexual orientation as a valid ground for refugee status, leaving these individuals vulnerable and without legal protection.
Homophobic Attacks: The LGBTIQ community in Kenya experiences widespread discrimination and violence, including from the host community and other refugee groups.
Anti-LGBTIQ Legislation: The recent tabling of an anti-LGBTIQ bill in the Kenyan Parliament further exacerbates their precarious situation.
Limited Resources: MDF operates on limited resources with no consistent funding sources. This severely impacts their ability to provide essential support, including shelter, food, medical care, and education for the children.

Urgent Needs:

Shelter: Monthly rent for the safe house is 15,000 Kenyan Shillings/GBP95.
Food: Ensuring daily meals and nutritional needs for all residents.
Medical Emergencies: Access to quality healthcare for unforeseen medical needs.
Water and Sanitation: Providing clean water and adequate sanitation facilities.
Education: Supporting the children's education with school fees, uniforms, and learning materials (termly cost: 60,000 Kenyan Shillings/GBP380).

Your generous contribution will directly impact the lives of these vulnerable individuals. By supporting MDF, you will:

Provide immediate relief: Assist with essential needs like shelter, food, and medical care.
Empower individuals: Enable MDF to continue its vital work in protecting and supporting LGBTIQ refugees.
Advocate for change: Support efforts to secure legal recognition and protection for LGBTIQ refugees in Kenya.

We understand that resources are limited, and any contribution, however small, will make a significant difference. Thank you for your compassion and solidarity with these individuals fighting for their lives and their dignity.

Read more about our organisation and work at: https://www.minority-defenders-forum.org/

Email: safeshelters@minority-defenders-forum.org