Background Information

Despite progressive strides in human rights, Gender and Sexual Minority (GSM) persons in Kilifi County continue to face safety and security threats, including harassment, arbitrary arrests, and lack of legal redress. Civil society organizations (CSOs) and social justice centers have been central to providing support and documenting these violations, yet their efforts are often undermined by strained relationships with law enforcement. Bridging this gap is essential for advancing dignity, equity, and justice for all individuals regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Pema Kenya recognizes that achieving meaningful change requires building mutual trust and collaborative frameworks between law enforcement and civil society actors. This week , Pema Kenya will  be convening a high-level workshop to advance this agenda through dialogue, joint planning, and co-creation of long-term solutions.

Goal of the workshop

To strengthen collaboration between law enforcement agencies and civil society organizations in Mombasa County to enhance the safety, dignity, and human rights of GSM persons.

Objectives of workshop

• To foster a shared understanding of the legal and safety challenges faced by GSM individuals in Kilifi County.
• To strengthen partnerships between CSOs, social justice centers, and law enforcement for a coordinated response to rights violations.
• To co-create a referral and redress mechanism that supports GSM persons facing violence or legal injustice.
• To introduce and integrate the safety and security directory as a collaborative tool to improve response, documentation and accountability of GSM-related safety cases

Methodology of Delivery

The high-level workshop will be held over two days in a physical format, bringing together key representatives from law enforcement, regional administration, CSOs, and social justice networks. Sessions will include group discussions, stakeholder mapping, case study reviews, and collaborative planning exercises

NEKESA WANDERA

Health promotion officer