This archive report was first published on 7 July 2020.
On May 24, 2019, the High Court of Kenya upheld a law banning gay sex, making same-sex relations punishable by 14 years in jail. This decision was met with both celebration and disappointment, with some rejoicing at the ruling and the LGBTQ community and activists left feeling defeated.
Fast forward to 2020, when media personality Anita Nderu's show 'The Overdressed Cook' featured gay guests, sparking a heated debate about Kenya's homophobia. The show's host, Anita Nderu, was criticized for promoting same-sex relationships, but her actions also highlighted the need for a conversation about LGBTQ rights in Kenya.
As the country grapples with the consequences of the pandemic, it's time to re-examine our values and consider a new normal. The fact is that LGBTQ individuals exist and will continue to exist, and it's hypocritical to criticize them for their sexual orientation.
Wanuri Wanuri Kahiu's film 'Rafiki' was banned in Kenya due to its homosexual theme, but the ban was later lifted for its eligibility for the Oscar awards nomination. This irony highlights the double standards that exist in Kenya when it comes to LGBTQ rights.
It's time for Kenya to have an open and honest conversation about LGBTQ rights and to acknowledge the harm caused by homophobia. As Anita Nderu's show demonstrated, this conversation is long overdue.
