In Limuru, Kenya, Ugandan refugee Constance expresses concern over the Shirika Plan, an initiative by President William Ruto aimed at integrating over 800,000 refugees into Kenyan society. The plan aims to convert the extensive Kakuma and Dadaab refugee camps into open cities, offering refugees opportunities for employment and healthcare. While Constance acknowledges the potential benefits, he voices fears that LGBTQ refugees, like himself, will be further marginalized, given the rising anti-LGBTQ sentiment in Kenya and their exclusion from public discussions regarding the plan.
Despite official assurances that all affected groups were invited to participate in discussions, LGBTQ representatives feel sidelined. Constance emphasizes the unique security and housing issues faced by this community and questions how they can voice their concerns without representation. Critics of the plan, including MP Daniel Epuyo, argue that local community leaders were inadequately consulted, preferring repatriation over integration.
The Shirika Plan, which spans from 2023 to 2036 and is expected to cost around $943 million, aims to foster self-reliance among refugees while moving away from humanitarian dependency. However, activists warn that increased integration could exacerbate vulnerabilities for LGBTQ refugees, especially as attacks and discrimination remain prevalent.
With a history of welcoming LGBTQ refugees, Kenya’s landscape is shifting, particularly following Uganda’s recent legislation imposing harsh penalties for homosexuality. Constance, among many waiting for asylum decisions, faces bureaucratic inertia and uncertainty about his future. As discussions continue, LGBTQ advocates are urging for the inclusion of their rights within the plan, emphasizing the need for the government to address the safety and rights of this marginalized group.
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