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Navigating Sexual Orientation and Identity

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Nyakundi Report

Newsroom 2 min read

This archive report was first published on 18 July 2020.

On a typical day at the Sexology Clinic, a trio of teenagers, Daniel, Robert, and Andrew, walked in, eager to discuss their concerns about their sexual orientation and identity.

Published on July 18, 2020, their visit marked a significant moment in understanding the complexities of human sexuality.

As they introduced themselves, they made it clear that they were gay and wanted to explore various issues related to their sexuality.

"We've been reading your articles in the Nation, and we know you do a lot with heterosexuals, but we're here to tell you that we also need help; do you help homosexuals as well?" Andrew asked, sparking a conversation that would delve into the intricacies of human identity.

After conducting sexual orientation tests, the results revealed that Daniel was bisexual, while Robert and Andrew were homosexuals with minimal attraction to the opposite sex.

As a counsellor, it was essential to address the social aspects of life, emphasizing the importance of family cohesion, peace of mind, and being aware of one's family values.

Research suggests that up to 6% of men and 4% of women may be homosexuals, translating to approximately 10% of the population, or about two million adults in Kenya.

It's crucial to distinguish between having sexual feelings and acting on them, as individuals may choose to be celibate or wait until later in life to be intimate.

Each person's journey is unique, and the outcomes of their choices are not collective; every individual faces different results based on their context.

As a result, the three friends were booked for separate counselling sessions to address their distinct life situations.

Robert decided to abstain from sex until a later date, focusing on his college studies and career, while Daniel asked for more time to reflect on his relationship.

Andrew, on the other hand, chose to involve his parents in the discussion, leading to a meeting at the clinic where his parents were informed about his sexual orientation.

However, the reaction was not what Andrew had anticipated, as his mother fainted and refused to participate in any future discussions on the subject.

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