Background Information

LGBTIQ+ individuals in Mombasa County continue to face significant barriers in accessing justice and exercising their civic and democratic rights. Challenges such as discriminatory policing, harassment, limited legal knowledge, and fear of reporting violations contribute to a climate where many rights abuses go unaddressed. With the country approaching the 2027 General Elections, the need for strengthened legal awareness and civic participation among LGBTIQ+ communities has become even more urgent.

Pema Kenya recognizes that informed and empowered communities are better equipped to claim their rights, hold duty bearers accountable, and participate meaningfully in governance processes. To address these gaps, Pema Kenya will be conducting a series of five legal literacy workshops aimed at increasing legal knowledge, improving confidence in seeking justice, and enhancing civic engagement among LGBTIQ+ individuals in Mombasa County.

Goal of the workshop

To strengthen the legal literacy, rights awareness, and civic participation of LGBTIQ+ individuals in Mombasa County, ensuring they can access justice and safely engage in governance and electoral processes.

Objectives of  workshop

• To enhance participants’ understanding of Kenyan laws and constitutional rights.
• To increase awareness of access-to-justice pathways, including legal aid and safe reporting mechanisms.
• To build confidence among LGBTIQ+ individuals to document and report violations.
• To strengthen knowledge of democratic rights and civic engagement ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
• To equip participants with practical tools for safe participation in electoral processes, including potential roles in election observation.

Methodology of Delivery

The workshops will be conducted through a physical sessions, each bringing together 40 LGBTIQ+ participants, facilitated by an advocate and  paralegals. Using a Human Rights–Based Approach (HRBA), the sessions will be participatory, inclusive, and empowerment-focused.

Responsible Person

Nekesa Wandera, Program Officer