Courage and Resistance: The Daily Life of the Trans Community in Kisii

In rural Kenya, Kisii paints a stark picture of the everyday reality faced by transgender individuals. While the country’s constitution formally prohibits discrimination, the lived experiences tell a very different story. Trans people—especially trans women—face constant discrimination, harassment, and a deep sense of exclusion.

Defending one’s rights and seeking safety is often a continuous struggle, where simply existing as oneself requires immense courage.

The Deep Roots of Discrimination

Although awareness of LGBTIQ+ rights is growing in Kenyan cities, conservative attitudes in rural areas like Kisii continue to keep the trans community on the margins.

Stigma is deeply rooted in the structures of the community, and trans people often find it nearly impossible to access fundamental rights such as healthcare, housing, and education. Many live in constant fear of discrimination or violence, which can come from both their families and the wider society.

In such an environment, grassroots organizations like Vision Stars Ladies, a partner of International Solidarity Foundation (ISF), are vital. They provide safe spaces and essential support to a community that often feels alone in the world. However, the work of these organizations is under constant threat due to decreasing funding and increasingly restrictive conditions.

Left in the Shadow of the Law

Violence and mistreatment against trans people are common, but the majority of cases go unreported.
Often, this is due to fear that authorities will not treat them fairly. The police not only neglect to protect trans individuals, but can also be perpetrators of violence and ridicule themselves. For many, seeking justice remains nothing more than an unattainable dream.

At the same time, being pushed to the margins of society takes a heavy toll on the mental health of trans people. Many experience deep loneliness, depression, and anxiety—feelings that often lead to suicidal thoughts. The available mental health services are insufficient, and the lack of safe spaces only worsens the situation.

Threats and Opportunities

Recently, organizations serving the rainbow community, such as Vision Star Ladies—the only group working with trans and sex workers in the Kisii area—have faced increased surveillance and threats. The atmosphere of “moral panic” threatens these organizations’ ability to serve as safe havens for the trans community. The situation in Kisii is further worsened by the withdrawal of the U.S. development agency USAID, which has weakened the operating conditions of many rights-based organizations.

However, the future also holds opportunities if the international community steps in. Support is needed to create safe spaces, improve mental health services, and enable legal gender recognition. These measures would not only advance the rights of trans people but also foster hope for a better future.