The Chairperson
Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance
Dodoma, Tanzania
Dear Chairperson,
Warm greetings from LGBT Voice Tanzania.
On this year’s International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOT), commemorated globally under the theme “The Power of Communities,” we take this opportunity to raise our voice and bring urgent attention to the harsh realities faced by LGBTQ+ people in our country.
In Tanzania, LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face systemic discrimination and violations of their basic human rights across nearly every facet of life—simply for who they are. As a national human rights institution mandated to protect all Tanzanians, we respectfully appeal for your leadership and urgent engagement to address these injustices.
Key Areas of Concern:
1. Education:
LGBTQ+ youth often experience bullying, exclusion, and expulsion from schools. The absence of inclusive policies means many are forced to drop out, denying them their right to education and a chance for a better future.
2. Health Access:
LGBTQ+ people, particularly those at risk for HIV, face stigma and discrimination in health facilities. Many are denied services, shamed, or outed by providers. The ban on water-based lubricants—essential to safer sex—further endangers lives, while silencing open discussions around sexual health.
3. Legal System:
Colonial-era laws still criminalize same-sex relationships, fostering a climate of fear, blackmail, and violence. These laws are not just outdated—they are harmful and unconstitutional, violating international human rights standards and Tanzania’s own commitment to dignity and justice.
4. Employment and Livelihoods:
Discrimination in hiring and the workplace is rampant. LGBTQ+ individuals often lose jobs, are denied promotions, or face harassment solely based on perceived or actual identity, contributing to poverty and economic instability.
5. Social Marginalization and Violence:
From being rejected by families to experiencing physical assaults, forced evictions, and community hostility, LGBTQ+ people are often left with no safe place to turn. The crackdown on NGOs and arrests initiated by state officials in recent years further exacerbate this persecution.
Our Appeal to the Commission:
We urge the Commission to publicly acknowledge the human rights violations faced by LGBTQ+ Tanzanians and take the following steps:
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Advocate for the protection of LGBTQ+ persons as a matter of constitutional and human rights.
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Engage with community organizations like LGBT Voice Tanzania to better understand the lived experiences and needs of LGBTQ+ citizens.
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Support the repeal of outdated colonial laws that criminalize consensual adult same-sex relationships.
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Promote inclusive policies in education, health care, employment, and law enforcement that protect all Tanzanians, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
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Provide human rights education and anti-discrimination training to public institutions, including police, teachers, and health workers.
We believe that your leadership is vital in ensuring that no Tanzanian is left behind in our collective journey toward justice and equality. The power of our communities can only be fully realized when all people, including LGBTQ+ individuals, are protected, respected, and treated with dignity.
Thank you for your attention and continued commitment to human rights for all.
With hope and solidarity,
James Wandera Ouma
Executive Director
LGBT Voice Tanzania
