Fem Alliance Uganda

Fem Alliance Uganda (FEMA) is a grassroots, community-led organization founded in 2012 by lesbian and transgender activists to address the lack of representation and support for lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LBTQ) individuals in Uganda. Operating primarily in southern Kampala and rural areas, FEMA is committed to promoting human rights, restoring dignity, and improving the livelihoods of LBTQ communities through education, advocacy, and strategic partnerships.

Mission and Vision

• Mission: To promote human rights and restore the dignity of LBTQ persons through education, personal development, advocacy, and strategic partnerships.

• Vision: A stigma-free Uganda where LBTQ individuals enjoy equal rights, human dignity, respect, and social justice.

Core Programs and Services

FEMA operates a Drop-in Centre that includes a psychosocial Wellness Centre, offering mental health support through counseling, group therapy, and healing sessions for trans and gender-diverse individuals. The organization provides tailored services such as HIV testing and counseling, provision of PrEP and antiretroviral therapy, screening for Hepatitis B and other sexually transmitted infections, and distribution of preventative healthcare supplies like condoms and lubricants. Additionally, FEMA offers timely referrals to partner organizations for further healthcare support and management.

Advocacy and Capacity Building

In collaboration with Global Action for Trans Equality (GATE), FEMA launched the Trans and Gender Diverse Capacity Enhancement Initiative to equip activists with data-driven advocacy skills. This program trained 35 activists from across Uganda, enhancing their ability to engage in national and global health policy discussions, including the National Strategic Plan and PEPFAR processes. As a result, trans and gender-diverse perspectives have been included in key decision-making spaces, such as the Country Coordinating Mechanism (CCM) in Uganda, influencing HIV policy dialogues and leading to improved access to health services for the community.

Leadership

Jay Mulucha, a prominent LGBTI activist, serves as the Executive Director of FEMA. Under his leadership, the organization has expanded its programs to include economic empowerment projects, such as computer training and skills development in candle-making, arts and crafts, jewelry, and clothing production, aimed at supporting LBTQ individuals who face employment discrimination.

Challenges and Resilience

FEMA operates in a challenging environment marked by widespread discrimination, violence, and systemic barriers against LBTQ individuals. The passing of the Anti-Homosexuality Act in May 2023 has exacerbated these challenges, leading to increased stigma, loss of employment opportunities, and mental health issues within the community. Despite these obstacles, FEMA continues to provide essential support and advocacy for trans and gender-diverse communities in Uganda.

Contact Information

• Email: femauganda@gmail.com

• Alternate Email: femaprograms@gmail.com

• Facebook: Fem Alliance Uganda

• X (formerly Twitter): @femauganda

• Instagram: @femauganda2024