As a proud LGBTIQ individual from Uganda, I’ve faced persecution, rejection and violence, forcing me to seek refuge in Zambia. Unfortunately, my experience in Zambia has been marked by hostility and rejection, with immigration officers making it clear that LGBTIQ individuals are not welcome.
My Story
My name is Nkyanungi Denis. I was arrested on July 31, 2024, and released on February 7, 2025, after spending months in police custody and two weeks in prison without a court hearing. Upon my release, UNHCR and refugee camp management advised me not to return to the camp due to safety concerns. Despite this, UNHCR has failed to secure permanent accommodation for me, citing lack of funds. I’ve been temporarily housed in a government shelter, but I’m at risk of being kicked out due to my LGBTIQ status.
Challenges Faced by LGBTIQ Refugees in Zambia
- Persecution and Violence: Targeted violence and abuse due to sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Rejection by Host Country: Hostility and rejection from local communities
- Limited Access to Documents: Without government recognition, LGBTIQ refugees struggle to obtain documents necessary for employment, leaving them without a means to survive.
- Inadequate Response from UNHCR: Lack of safe housing, counseling services, and protection from violence.
Consequences of Limited Access to Resources:
- Many LGBTIQ refugees are forced into informal or exploitative work, such as sex work, to survive.
- Without proper documentation, refugees are at risk of arrest, deportation, and exploitation.
- Social discrimination makes it difficult for undocumented refugees to access essential services like healthcare and education.
The Way Forward
To address these challenges, the government, UNHCR, and stakeholders must work together to:
- Strengthen Protection Mechanisms: Safeguard LGBTIQ refugees from violence and persecution.
- Tailored Services: Provide healthcare, counseling, and social services catering to LGBTIQ refugees’ unique needs.
- Advocacy and Awareness: Promote acceptance and understanding of LGBTIQ issues within Zambian society and among government officials.
Call for Support
I urge support for me as an individual, while also advocating for continued support for LGBTIQ refugees in Zambia. It’s essential to recognize our humanity and dignity, ensuring we’re treated with respect and protected from harm.
A Call to Action
The situation for LGBTIQ+ refugees in Zambia requires urgent attention and action. To address the challenges faced by these individuals, it is essential to:
- Promote Inclusion and Acceptance: Encourage Zambian society to accept and include LGBTIQ+ individuals, promoting a culture of tolerance and understanding.
- Strengthen Support Services: Enhance support services, including healthcare, education, and employment opportunities, to cater to the specific needs of LGBTIQ+ refugees.
- Advocate for Policy Change: Advocate for policy changes that protect the rights of LGBTIQ+ refugees and promote their inclusion in national development programs.
Support Needed:
- Safe Housing: Secure and safe living arrangements for LGBTIQ refugees.
- Counseling Services: Access to mental health services and counseling.
- Protection from Violence: Measures to safeguard LGBTIQ refugees from violence and persecution.
- Advocacy : Promote acceptance and understanding of LGBTIQ issues within Zambian society.
By working together, we can create a more inclusive and protective environment for LGBTIQ refugees in Zambia, ensuring dignity and respect for all.
By Nkyanungi Denis