Examination of sexual and gender minorities’ lived experiences in Kenya

Published On: July 8, 2025
Technical Reports
Health and Wellbeing, Sexual, Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health (SRMNCAH)

Lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender, queer, and other gender non-conforming (LGBTQ+) people in sub-Saharan Africa face identity-based violations of their human rights and injustices arising from stigma and discrimination across socioecological levels. In Kenya, the increasing prominence of LGBTQ+ activity is accompanied by the persistence of legal sanctions against same-sex behavior and the perpetuation of deep-seated cultural prejudices. These factors perpetuate harassment, discrimination, and acts of violence against individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. Furthermore, Kenya’s Penal Code contains provisions that prohibit same-sex activities as an unnatural offence punishable by up to 14 years in prison. Religious and heteronormative social norms adversely affect the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals. However, there is inadequate data on the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ people. This study sought to contribute to the growing field of knowledge on gender and sexual minorities in Kenya by exploring the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ people in that country.