In the heart of Western Kenya, the LGBTQ+ community faces a growing crisis that often goes unnoticed: the connection between financial hardship and substance abuse, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM). Although there is limited research on how financial struggles directly contribute to drug use within this group, discussions and outreach efforts have brought the issue into...
The social stigma and discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ people create overwhelming stress and hardship, often leading to mental health conditions. For many queer individuals, this burden makes it difficult to seek the necessary medical and mental health treatment. Fear of judgment, bias, and lack of support only heightens the barriers to receiving care.At the forefront of combating these challenges, our...
Workplace discrimination remains a critical issue, disproportionately affecting LGBTQIA+ individuals, leading to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment. These inequities prevent them from reaching their full productive potential, as barriers to physical and mental health reduce their ability to thrive both in the workplace and beyond.Recognizing the urgent need for change, Shinners C.B.O is championing a new path forward with...
In a society where LGBTQ+ individuals often face stigma and discrimination, finding spaces of acceptance and belonging can be a challenge. For many within the queer community, spaces that should be welcoming, such as places of worship, healthcare facilities, and public institutions, often become battlegrounds of exclusion. However, there are efforts underway to change this narrative.On Tuesday 17 of September...
In an effort to bridge the gap in access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services for sexual and gender minorities (SGM), Shinners Community-Based Organization (C.B.O) has embarked on a critical mission to educate healthcare providers. The initiative comes in response to growing concerns about the exclusion and violation of fundamental human rights faced by groups such as lesbians, gays,...
As we prepare to step into September 2024, marking the last month of Quarter 3, the Shinners C.B.O team is filled with immense gratitude and excitement for the journey ahead. Reflecting on our recent accomplishments and setting sights on the future, we are reminded of the incredible support that has fueled our mission.Our monthly review meeting was successfully held at...
On May 4, 2024, the overflowing of River Nyando caused a severe disruption in Kisumu, as the river broke its banks, flooding Nyando Bridge and surrounding areas. The rising waters swept through nearby homes, shops, and roads, leaving a trail of devastation. The hardest-hit areas include Nyando, Kadibo, Kisumu Central, Nyakach, and Kisumu East subcounties.In addition to property damage, the...
In a concerted effort to tackle the pressing issues of substance abuse and mental health, Kisumu Shinners Community-Based Organization (C.B.O.), in collaboration with Ampath Kenya-AYAM and with support from Uhai Eashri, has launched a comprehensive one-week training program under their substance use support initiative.The training, officially inaugurated by Madam Dorothy Oketch, a representative from the Ministry of Health, aims to...
In the heart of Kisumu, a beacon of hope shines brightly as Kisumu Shinners Community-Based Organization (C.B.O) embarks on a transformative journey, embracing the power of strategic partnerships and collaboration. Recognizing that unity is strength, Kisumu Shinners C.B.O understands that partnering with like-minded organizations not only amplifies their efforts but also brings crucial social issues to the forefront. Recently, Kisumu Shinners...
In the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS, it's increasingly evident that the root causes of vulnerability extend far beyond individual behavior. Structural factors such as violence, poverty, stigma and discrimination, and gender inequality play a significant role in exacerbating susceptibility to the virus. Kisumu Shinners Community Based Organization (C.B.O) is at the forefront of addressing these structural factors, particularly focusing on...
