Author name: LGBT Voice Tanzania

Firstly, it is crucial to acknowledge that homosexuality is not a conscious decision but rather a natural variation of human sexuality. Extensive scientific research conducted by various reputable institutions has consistently demonstrated that sexual orientation, including homosexuality, is influenced by a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. It is important to note that homosexuality […]

Homophobia in Tanzania is not rooted in traditions and cultures, but rather, it is a consequence of colonial laws and religious teachings. The influence of colonialism on Tanzanian society cannot be overlooked, as it has shaped societal attitudes and norms. During the colonial era, European powers imposed their own legal systems, which criminalized same-sex relationships

LGBT employees in 72 UN-member countries are protected from discrimination in employment, but in another 72 countries, LGBT employees can still be arrested just for being who they are. Every June, the LGBT community celebrates Pride Month because of the historic Stonewall riots of the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States. Fifty years have passed

A recent study found that 75% of those who underwent transgender surgery had a better quality of life after the operation. However, as the recent onslaught on the LGBT community by the Tanzanian government makes life difficult for this community, it becomes increasingly challenging to collect data on the happiness levels of trans individuals in the country.

Tanzania, where The Advocates has partnered recently with LGBTI human rights organizations, provides a good example of the problem. Due to widespread discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, LGBT individuals in Tanzania fear disclosing their sexual orientation to health care providers.  Further, health care providers often refuse needed services to LGBT individuals. In its Third

For 41-year old James Wandera Ouma, LGBT activism has become his life’s work. As the executive director of LGBT Voice Tanzania , Ouma works to advance equality, diversity, education and justice for LGBT people in Tanzania. Recently, Ouma was in attendance at the Oak Park Area Lesbian and Gay Association’s ( OPALGA ) annual awards

Pictured right: Mohamed Mbata, Deputy Director of LGBT Voice Tanzania  This past November, I sent my associate Chris Westling to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, to meet with LGBT activists and discuss the lack of progress in the area of human rights as related to LGBT issues. Currently, it is a crime punishable by imprisonment to