Just like its name, MEND INITIATIVE is out to mend both livelihoods and societal perspectives about LBTQ women. The organization whose thematic areas of work are digital entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, labour and economic advocacy, vocational training and social wellness also offers scholarships to its beneficiaries.
February 2021
“As Key Populations, we have collected data but we don’t own it. We want to make sure that each and every stone has been turned as we come together to figure out ways in which we can achieve ownership of the data we collect, put out there and share….,”Brant Luswata shared.
We write to show the community that you are not alone. Further, we hope this statement can help other Ghanaians who feel supportive know that they do not have to be cowed by the violent rhetoric of the government, the press, and the religious sector. The violence directed at the community in the wake of their office launch demonstrates the vitriolic conditions under which queer Ghanaians live and why such a community space is needed.
We understand the euphoria football can bring the passion of being part of a community; shared experiences, the highs, and the lows, all ‘in it’ together. We believe no one should feel excluded from something which connects people in a way nothing else can
We do not as a group entity, support any one political party. In fact, individual LGBTIQ+ persons will be differently affiliated to a political party or ideology of their choice as is Constitutionally allowed and provided. The service organizations that support our wellbeing are also equally non-partisan, recognizing that our only mandate is to serve our members and clients with the services that they need.
“Pan Africa ILGA and GIN are concerned about the growing number of torture happening to the LGBTQ+ persons in the camp. the brutal attacks, continue to emerge for years now and it is high time this must be addressed
The extremely reflective series of self-discovery and acceptance will take many down the familiar road of coming to grips with one’s sexuality or gender in a highly homophobic society.
However, this well-meaning and celebration- worthy event has now turned into a subject of contention and rage as homophobes in the country are calling for the closure of the newly opened space.
In January 2019, Angola’s parliament approved the new penal code which eliminated the outlawing of homosexuality. These new laws officially came into effect on 9th February 2021 after a ninety-day period from their publication date on 22nd July 2020.
“Don’t let anyone intimidate you. Come out, show your identity, you are who you are, boy, you’re who you are. Don’t let anybody intimidate you. I be gay, I be no herdsman, and I am proud.”