How Mokeira is making the world a better place for LGBTQ+ in Kisii
By FK
I’m a party person,’ Mokeira beams, their eyes reflecting a world of experiences beneath the warm Bosongo sun. ‘My best self emerges amidst the revelry. I am someone who immerses myself completely.’
Mokeira’s tale unfolds; a testament to resilience and advocacy, against the vibrant backdrop of Kisii.
In the heartland of Kisii, Mokeira’s journey was far from smooth. Raised in a small village where homosexuality was a foreign and forbidden concept, they found comfort in their truth. Yet, they feared coming out to their parents—a fear rooted in uncertainty and societal expectations.
‘As I began dating women, people around me started to drift away,’ Mokeira reveals, reflecting on the changes that ensued. ‘They began distancing themselves from me. That’s when I felt the sting of discrimination.’
Despite hurdles, Mokeira became a community volunteer, championing LGBTQ+ rights in Kisii. Their journey began with simple interactions, Mokeirading safety among fellow queer individuals. ‘I encountered other queer individuals,’ Mokeira reminisces. ‘We had this weekly meeting. It was incredibly liberating. Subsequently, I joined a group of queer individuals and I felt a sense of safety.’
In their role as a community volunteer, Mokeira faces challenges with unwavering resolve. The pressure from peers, the reluctance of many to reveal their true selves, and the looming threat of legislative threats such as the Kaluma Bill, which aims to criminalize homosexuality and same-sex marriages, added new urgency to Mokeira’s advocacy. Named after Homa Bay MP Peter Kaluma, the bill poses a direct threat to the rights and freedoms of LGBTQIA individuals.
In the face of legislative threats and societal stigma, Mokeira’s determination remains unyielding. They aspire to deepen their understanding of the law, to equip themselves with the tools necessary to safeguard their community.
Reflecting on past experiences, Mokeira’s voice is filled with empathy and resolve. ‘Why should I be discriminated against for being who I am?’ they question their words echoing the sentiments of countless others who have faced similar injustices. Yet, as they recount the hurdles they’ve surmounted, Mokeira’s resolve only intensifies.
Drawing from their roots in Nyamache, Mokeira understands the significance of community and solidarity. Through peer support networks and educational initiatives, they aim to empower others with knowledge and resources, fostering a sense of unity and belonging within the LGBTQ+ community.
In collaboration with organizations like Inclusivity, Diversity, and Equity Advocacy Organization and the National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission, Mokeira’s impact transcends the boundaries of the Bosongo Health Facility. Together, they advocate for policy changes and provide essential services that prioritize the needs of marginalized communities, creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout the region. They hope for a more inclusive society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
As the conversation draws to a close, Mokeira’s voice brims with hope and determination.
‘I take pride in the progress we’ve made,’ they assert, their gaze reflecting the resilience of their community. From the streets of Nyamache to the halls of the Bosongo Health Facility, Mokeira’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of empathy and advocacy.
In Mokeira’s story lies the essence of hope—guiding others toward a future where inclusivity reigns supreme.