Black Pride seeks to bring global attention to this harsh reality. It is a reminder that while some parts of the world celebrate with rainbows, others are enveloped in darkness. This campaign is a plea for recognition, support, and solidarity from the international community.

Black Pride is not just for Uganda. It extends to all regions where LGBTQ+ individuals face similar struggles. In countries ravaged by war and political instability, the situation is even more dire. In such climates, survival often takes precedence, and the rights and lives of queer individuals are frequently overlooked. Black Pride aims to shine a light on these neglected stories and amplify the voices of those who cannot speak out.

Despite hopes for reform, the recent revisit of the Anti-Homosexuality Act did little to alleviate the plight of journalists and LGBTQ+ activists. The only revisions that were made in this regard were to allow for academic related publication of LGBTQ-themed work, the fundamental clause equating reporting with promotion remained intact. This subtle yet significant omission reaffirms the state’s commitment to censorship when it comes to LGBTQ reporting, perpetuating a culture of silence and invisibility.

As Ugandans, it’s time to confront a crucial question: Does consensual relations between adults of the same sex truly bother us to the extent that we are willing to sacrifice the principles of equality, dignity, and progress in our own country? Is the pervasive hate towards LGBTQ+ individuals a valid justification for enduring poor leadership and enduring the consequences of bad legislation? Are consensual relationships between adults of the same sex truly a threat to our society? Do they pose a danger to our families, our communities, or our way of life? No! Do you know what causes threats to our societies, when people who need services cannot access them because of laws created in prejudice. It is time to examine if really the whole nation is not serving time for this crime of being silent towards marginalization.

The verdict’s impact on the LGBTQ+ community in Uganda is profound, amplifying the existing challenges faced by sexual and gender minorities. The inability to officially register organizations like SMUG limits our capacity to access resources, engage in advocacy, and provide essential support services. This setback not only impedes the community’s ability to foster unity but also leaves us susceptible to heightened discrimination, violence, and exclusion.
Furthermore, the court’s decision reinforces the hostile environment created by the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, making it increasingly difficult for LGBTQ+ individuals to lead open and authentic lives. The fear of persecution and legal consequences looms larger, pushing many members of the community further into the shadows.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme “Invest in women: Accelerate progress’ resonates deeply with our work and mission at both UNESO and UBUNTU. Women cannot achieve progress at any rate let alone an accelerated rate unless they can live violence-free lives. Women in Uganda are being massacred and living under a constant threat of femicide, an extreme manifestation of violence against women. The picture is particularly grim for marginalised communities including sex workers and sexual and gender minorities who face intersecting and multiple vulnerabilities, inequalities, and criminalisation.
According to the police annual crime report 2022, a total of 17,698 country-wide Gender Based Violence cases with related murders were reported for women. The Demographic and Health Survey 2016, indicates that women are more than twice as likely to experience violence as opposed to their male counterparts.