African allies do exist. In this video-based documentary series, we meet prominent African thinkers, politicians, and culture makers as they share their personal journeys to allyship. From Doula, Cameroon to Kampala, Uganda to the stages of the world, these household names demystify misconceptions around who supports LGBTIQ equality in Africa—and their reasons why. On a continent where powerful and visible allies are hard to find, the African Allies Series will present stories that inspire allies into action and expand room for the understanding of Queer African identities as anything but foreign.
Seun Kuti
The last born son of the renowned Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, Seun Kuti follows in his father’s footsteps as a brilliant Nigerian musician, a great singer and a firm believer in self-expression. By leading Fela's former band Egypt 80 and promoting the values of inclusion, Seun Kuti continues his father’s legacy. With a passion for social justice, in 2012, Seun Kuti participated actively in the Occupy Nigeria protests taking a stand against the policies of President Goodluck Jonathan.
Bishop Christopher Ssenyonjo
Christopher Senyonjo’s life is a story of transformation. He was a clergyman who was elevated to bishop in 1974. After his retirement, Ssenyonjo founded a community center as a safe place for the Ugandan LGBTQ+ community saying, “I did not know before, what I know now.” He works to provide housing and employment for those denied these basic rights because of their gender expression or sexuality. Barred from performing church services by the Church of Uganda, he has become one of the most important advocates for gay rights in his country.
