This brief summarizes the research “Analysis and
Documentation of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity
and Expression and Sex Characteristics (SOGIE- SC)
norm shift in Kenya” produced in July 2020 by Nguru
Karugu1, Chris Ouma1, Jeffrey Walimbwa1, Muthoni
Ngige1, Serah Nduta1, Owuor Olungah2, and Evans
Gichuru3
Despite documented victories by the LGBTI communities
across Africa in promoting reforms to repeal
restrictions on sexual orientation and gender
identity, social inclusion is yet to be fully realized
in most countries, Kenya included. Stigma,
discrimination and violence still stubbornly persist
and the dominant cultural and religious traditions
range from indifferent to antagonistic when it comes
to rights of LGBTI persons. Norms can support
discrimination and use of violence, while norms that
support rights can also help protect against the
violence and discrimination of LGBTI people. Yet,
research on LGBTI persons is limited in Kenya and the
majority of research on norms change focuses on health
and gender in rural communities.
Research Goals
The aim of the study was to generate evidence on SOGIE-
SC norm shift in Kenya by answering the question: what
is the impact of norms on the lived realities of the
SOGIE-SC communities and how can these be shifted to be
more inclusive? The study was guided by the following
objectives:
To identify and document the effect of norms on the
lived realities of SOGIE-SC communities in Kenya.
To identify and document promising practices for SOGIE-
SC norm shift work in Kenya.
To explore opportunities and barriers that impact SOGIE-
SC norm shift work in Kenya.