Lack of knowledge about intersex conditions coupled with cultural, religious, and social beliefs often results in prejudice, stigma, and discrimination against intersex people in Nigeria and much of the world.
Category: LGBTQI+Faith in Africa
The following stories on LGBTQI+ rights and religion in Sub-Saharan Africa stem from Taboom’s regular workshops for journalists, editors and media professionals across the continent. Since 2016 we have trained and mentored hundreds of journalists from more than 35 countries in the region.
Double Trouble for Malawi’s LGBTQI+ Community
Gender and sexual minorities in Malawi say discrimination is a major factor making it hard for them to benefit from the government’s social protection programs after Cyclone Freddy devastated the southern region of the country in March 2023.
LGBTQ+: Through The Eyes Of Rastafarianism
Despite Rastafarianism’s purported principles of unity, justice, and equality, many Rastafarians discriminate against and marginalize gender and sexual minorities.
“We need to coexist, we’re not criminals,” Uganda’s LGBTQI+ people plead
Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act, which came into effect in May 2023, has fostered fear and uncertainty among LGBTQI+ people in the country.
Reprieve for Kenya’s LGBTQ+ community as more churches open their doors
Although many churches in Kenya have openly expressed their opposition to LGBTQ+ persons, some are seeking to change this narrative by preaching inclusivity and welcoming gender and sexual minorities.
Churches in Botswana called to peacefully coexist with LGBTQI community
In Botswana, where nearly 80 percent of people identify as Christian, religion permeates society. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI) people face widespread stigma, exclusion and discrimination, including in education, employment and health care.
Eswatini Religious Leaders Express Need for Sensitisation on LGBTQI Issue
In August 2018, at a rare meeting between Eswatini’s LGBTQI community and religious leaders, most of the 15 pastors in attendance walked out because they were uncomfortable with the discussions. Since that meeting, some local faith leaders have expressed willingness to meet with and learn more about the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex Emaswati.
Taboom and GALA launch “Whispers and Shouts,” Vol. 3 in our Queer Activism in Africa anthology series
In 21 new illustrated stories, African human rights defenders share why they fight for LGBTQI+ equality.
Nightlife: a false sense of security for LGBTQIA+ people
In a country where homosexuality is considered a crime, how do LGBTQIA+ people manage to live life to the fullest? In the artistic and nightlife scene, some spaces claim to be – discreetly – open to the LGBTQIA+ community, giving them access to bars and theaters where they can be themselves. Even so, Anas, Imene, Nour, and many other patrons still feel unsafe.
How traditional healers are helping members of the LGBTQ+ community gain acceptance in South Africa
“We are not here to change you, we are here to connect with your ancestors,” Thuli Mbete tells a middle-aged man who has just entered the room. Mbete is a sangoma, a traditional South African healer.
Taboom Media 