In a crazy move that has shocked many across the African continent, President William Ruto’s administration broke ranks with several African countries by backing a United Nations vote in support of LGBTQ+ rights.
On Monday, Kenya voted to renew the mandate of a UN-appointed expert tasked with documenting abuses against LGBTQ+ persons worldwide. The decision comes at a time when the United States, once a vocal supporter, has quietly pulled back under President Trump’s return to office.
The vote sets Kenya apart on a deeply controversial issue, especially within a continent known for its anti-LGBT sentiment.
LGBT Rights Take Center Stage in United Nations Human Rights Vote
Kenya was among 29 countries that voted in favor of renewing the mandate of Graeme Reid, a South African scholar and LGBTQ+ rights expert, at the UN Human Rights Council. Reid’s role is crucial—he investigates violations and engages in dialogue with governments, pushing for more inclusive and protective policies.
The three-year renewal passed by a vote of 29 in favor, 15 against, and three abstentions. Kenya joined nations like Chile, Germany, and South Africa in supporting the resolution, while most African states and conservative governments like Qatar voted against it.
This vote affirms the international community’s commitment to protecting LGBTQ+ individuals, many of whom face state-sanctioned violence and legal persecution in their home countries. Kenya’s stance, though surprising to many, could signal a shift in how the country positions itself on human rights issues globally.
For LGBTQ+ advocates, this is a breakthrough. At a time when anti-LGBT legislation is gaining ground in several African nations, Kenya’s “yes” vote pushes back against the tide of hate. It says loudly that dignity and safety should not depend on sexual orientation or gender identity.
US Pullback Leaves Gap That Kenya Unexpectedly Fills
The vote came amid the notable absence of the United States—a country that previously championed LGBTQ+ rights under the Biden administration. Under President Trump’s renewed leadership, however, Washington has begun rolling back protections.
Since January, Trump has signed several executive orders targeting transgender rights and dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion programs across government institutions. The US had also disengaged from the UN Human Rights Council in his previous term, citing alleged antisemitic bias.
This absence left a gaping hole in the global defense of LGBTQ+ rights. Into that vacuum stepped Kenya—a move that caught many off guard.
In doing so, Kenya not only signaled its willingness to stand on principle but also exposed the inconsistency of global powers that often preach human rights but fall short when it matters.
The message is clear: even as traditional defenders retreat, the fight for LGBTQ+ rights must go on. And sometimes, unexpected allies will lead the charge.
Economic Costs of Discrimination Loom Over Kenya’s Domestic Debate
Kenya’s vote at the UN also comes as the country faces heated domestic debates over LGBTQ+ rights. A controversial bill proposed by MP Peter Kaluma seeks to tighten laws against homosexuality, raising fears of criminalization and broader repression.
But Kenya has a lot to lose. A study released in March by Open for Business found that Kenya already suffers economic losses of up to Ksh201 billion ($1.5 billion) annually due to LGBTQ+ discrimination.
If Kaluma’s bill becomes law, that number could rise to nearly Ksh1 trillion in losses. The study further notes that East African economies lose as much as Ksh646 billion (about $5 billion) a year as a result of exclusion and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Discrimination doesn’t just destroy lives—it hurts the economy. Skilled workers are pushed out, businesses lose talent, and tourism takes a hit. Kenya’s international image also suffers.
In light of these findings, Kenya’s vote at the UN may not be just about human rights—it may also be a strategic move to safeguard the country’s economic interests and global standing.
Wrapping Up
President Ruto’s government has sent a powerful message to the world: Kenya will not be boxed in by outdated regional politics or the shifting winds of global superpowers.
By voting to support the LGBTQ+ rights expert at the UN, Kenya broke ranks with most of Africa and stepped into a leadership void left by the United States.
