On September 24th and 25th, 2024, Pema Kenya hosted an inception meeting in Mombasa County, focused on improving access to justice for Gender and Sexual Minority (GSM) persons. Pema Kenya, a membership-based organization founded in 2008, is dedicated to creating an enabling environment for its members and the broader community. As a GSM-led organization, Pema works closely with Gender and Sexual Minority individuals and communities, along with various stakeholders, to bridge the gap between the general population and the GSM community.

The meeting brought together a diverse group of participants, including lawyers, representatives from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), court assistants, probation officers, and members of civil society organizations and social justice centers. This collaborative initiative recognized that Gender and Sexual Minority individuals, including the LGBTQ+ community, often face significant discrimination and prejudice within societal structures, particularly in the justice system. Despite the existence of progressive legal frameworks in many areas, systemic barriers, bias, and a lack of understanding continue to hinder the realization of rights for these individuals.

To address these critical issues, Pema Kenya aimed to raise awareness among judicial service officers about the unique challenges faced by Gender and Sexual Minority persons within the justice system. The meeting also sought to provide insights into existing legal frameworks and international human rights standards that protect the rights of these individuals. Sensitization on issues related to gender identity, sexual orientation, and expression was another key objective, aiming to foster a more inclusive and unbiased justice system. Additionally, the meeting sought to establish a collaborative platform for ongoing dialogue and cooperation between Pema Kenya and judicial service officers to enhance access to justice for Gender and Sexual Minority persons.

The expected outcomes of this initiative include increased awareness and understanding among judicial service officers regarding the challenges faced by Gender and Sexual Minority individuals, enhanced knowledge of legal frameworks and human rights standards, improved sensitivity and responsiveness towards GSM issues, and the establishment of a foundation for ongoing collaboration between Pema Kenya and judicial service officers.

This inception meeting represents a vital step toward laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and just legal system that respects and upholds the rights of Gender and Sexual Minority persons. Through collaborative efforts, Pema Kenya aspires to create a positive impact on the lives of those seeking justice, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.