On 28th October 2025, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) hosted a delegation of Ugandan legislators who visited Kenya to benchmark on the country’s significant strides in the protection and promotion of the rights of intersex persons. The benchmarking visit was held at the KNCHR Kimathi Boardroom, bringing together leaders from both nations committed to advancing inclusivity and human rights across the East African region.
The delegation, led by Hon. Dr. Charles Ayume, the Member of Parliament for Koboko Municipality, was warmly received by Ms. Claris Oganga, the Chairperson of KNCHR. The discussions centered on Kenya’s progressive journey toward recognizing and safeguarding the rights of intersex persons a path that began in 2019, when Kenya took a historic step by enumerating intersex persons for the first time during the national census.
Since then, Kenya has made remarkable progress, culminating in the development of the Intersex Persons Bill, 2024, which is currently under review at the Office of the Attorney General. This legislative milestone represents a strong commitment to ensuring that intersex persons enjoy equal rights, protection, and recognition under the law.
During the engagement, the visiting delegation had the unique opportunity to hear from Commissioner Dr. Wamalwa Dennis, Kenya’s first-ever Intersex Commissioner at KNCHR. Dr. Wamalwa shared his lived experience as an intersex person and reflected on Kenya’s transformative journey from invisibility to recognition. His personal testimony and professional insights offered valuable lessons to the Ugandan team as they continue to advance similar reforms within their national framework.
The exchange underscored the importance of regional collaboration within the East African Community (EAC) in promoting human rights standards and best practices. Both delegations reaffirmed their shared commitment to fostering inclusion, dignity, and equality for all, leaving a strong foundation for continued partnerships between Kenya and Uganda in championing the rights of intersex persons.