Stories of Change from the #WeBelongAfrica Programme

In sub-Saharan Africa and around the world, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI+) people and young key populations continue to face persistent and intersecting inequalities that put their health, rights and lives at risk. Criminalizing laws, stigma, discrimination and social exclusion drive vulnerability and limit access to essential services. These challenges are exacerbated by shrinking civic space and broader pushbacks on human rights and gender equality, undermining progress toward universal health coverage, HIV targets and the Sustainable Development Goals.

The #WeBelongAfrica programme was launched in response to this urgent context. A regional initiative led by UNDP, it brings together two key projects – the Inclusive Governance Initiative and the Southern Africa Young Key Populations Inclusion Initiative – to support governments in sub-Saharan Africa to be more accountable, inclusive and responsive to LGBTI+ people and young key populations. The programme is made possible with support from Sweden and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Mozambique.

At its core, #WeBelongAfrica is about enabling change from within – through state and civil society partnerships that catalyse inclusive legal, policy and institutional reforms; improve the quality and accessibility of public sector services; and challenge harmful social norms. The programme helps build environments where the perspectives, needs and rights of marginalized populations are visible, valued and realized.  This collection of “stories of change” celebrates progress and persistence. It highlights community leadership, courageous partnerships and country-driven efforts that are paving the way toward a more inclusive and equitable future. These stories underscore the principle that sustainable development cannot be achieved if people are left behind – especially those who have long been pushed to the margins.

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