For decades, intersex persons have been facing a series of challenges in society because of their nature.
The individuals are born with sex characteristics that do not fit typical notions of either male or female.
They have been disdained and rejected by their circle of friends, families and the community.
Grappling with all kinds of insults emanating from individuals and hiding away from the faces that discriminate against them has become a tough battle.
Since many people don't view them as other human beings, they have opted to suffer in silence.
Their call for attention and love hasn't been answered by many individuals in society.
To create, enhance and maintain their mental peace, many have ventured into a state of solitude.
Others have committed suicide due to the abuses that have recently surfaced in the community they live in.
According to the UN Free and Equal Campaign, initiated by the UN office for human rights and a researcher, Ann Fausto Sterling concluded that around 1.7 per cent of newborn babies across the world are intersex.
Issues such as non-recognition, lack of awareness and stigma are considered to be some of the main challenges intersex persons go through.
According to Kenya National Commission on Human Rights Commission, intersex persons in Kenya continue to face human rights violations mainly centred on their legal recognitions which has a negative ripple effect on the enjoyment of their other rights and fundamental freedoms.
In the struggle to restore love and humanity to this affected group, the commission has continually advocated safeguarding the realisation and enjoyment of human rights for intersex persons as equal persons before the law.
KNCHR efforts have significantly been productive at a certain percentage but still, more has to be done to ensure rights of intersex people are not violated.
The 2019 census found there were 1,524 intersex persons. Nairobi had the highest number at 250.
As their numbers continue to rise, the task force should now focus more on creating awareness about the group.
Holding robust campaigns and educating the public on the need of showing unconditional love, treating them with respect and upholding their rights as other human beings will aid in weeding out the notion that they don't form part of our society.
KNCHR senior human rights officer Amos Wanyoike has been on the move to ensure the special needs of intersex children are attended to and upheld.
He ensures the affected children receive equal education as others.
The individuals fear joining learning institutions due to discrimination they are likely to face.
It’s time we end this.
KNCHR should ensure the children get special attention and enjoy the freedom they deserve.
This will end stigmatisation.
As a community, let us accept our intersex sisters and brothers, stop stigmatising them or violating their rights.
Student, Rongo University.
Edited by Kiilu Damaris
