We embrace and celebrate diversity, ensuring that every individual feels valued and respected.

We express compassion, readily available to give you shoulders to lean on, ensuring that every individual feels valued and respected.

We actively advocate for the rights and well-being of LGBTQI+ sex workers in Nigeria.

LGBTQI+ Rights and Legal Challenges 

Across Africa, LGBTQI+ individuals continue to face significant legal and social challenges. For example, 33 countries still criminalize same-sex relationships, which poses severe risks to the community. In recent years, there has been both progress and setbacks. Positive developments include Botswana's decriminalization of same-sex conduct, whereas countries like Ghana and Uganda have pursued stricter anti-LGBTQI+ laws​

Amnesty International

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Human Rights Watch

Safety and Health Concerns 

In Nigeria, women sex workers are disproportionately affected by violence and health risks. Reports indicate that they face stigma, inadequate healthcare access, and harassment. Studies highlight that female sex workers in sub-Saharan Africa have significantly higher risks of violence and health challenges​

Amnesty International

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Human Rights Watch

Community-Based Initiatives 

Organizations across Africa are taking proactive measures to provide support. This includes advocacy campaigns, health services, and awareness initiatives aimed at mitigating stigma and improving access to care for marginalized groups​

Amnesty International

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Human Rights Watch

Decriminalization Efforts

 Highlight recent progress towards the decriminalization of sex work in Africa, such as South Africa’s ongoing discussions aiming for decriminalization by 2024. This change is crucial to protecting sex workers from violence and discrimination while improving access to healthcare services​

Health Outreach and Awareness Campaigns (August 2024)

 Open Heart recently organized a series of health outreach campaigns in Anambra West LGA and Bwari LGA, focusing on HIV prevention and Hepatitis B awareness. The events included educational sessions on vaccination and safe health practices, with participation from community health workers and local leaders. 

Empowerment Workshops for LGBTQI+ and Women Sex Workers (July 2024) 

Workshops aimed at providing skills and resources to support economic independence for women sex workers and LGBTQI+ members were conducted. These events focused on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and access to healthcare services. 

Community Advocacy Meetings

 (June 2024) 

Open Heart facilitated community advocacy meetings with local stakeholders to discuss policy enhancements and the importance of inclusive healthcare practices. The meetings aimed to strengthen partnerships with health facilities and create sustainable referral systems for healthcare access. 

Virtual Dialogue Sessions 

(Ongoing 2024) 

Monthly virtual dialogue sessions were hosted to engage community members in discussions around access to healthcare, human rights, and safe practices. These sessions featured guest speakers, including healthcare professionals and human rights advocates, offering their insights and answering participants' questions.