- A group of Somalis wrote their names in the genesis book of history at the weekend by launching the first-ever gay website [www.somaligaycommunity.org].
The Project Manager of Somali Gay Community in the United Kingdom, Murad, said the site, which aims to woo Somalis the world over, is designed to bridge information drought surrounding gay affairs in a purely conservative and Muslim society like Somalia.
"The goal of the group is to create a space and a means for Somali gays and lesbians access to information, share experiences and develop support networks," Murad told afrol News.
He said the site will serve as a guide to “our brothers and sisters confronted with their same-sex affairs”. This will enable them to overcome their difficulties.
Murad said Somalia’s gay community lacks information on gay issues, but hoped that the new medium will effect some changes.
“It is shame that we are still confronted with discrimination based on religion, sexuality, race and colour in this modern world,“ he said, describing education as the only means of shaping the minds of people.
At the moment, the group composed of men alone, but it is wielding campaign to lure Somali women homosexuals to share their experiences on matters impeding their lesbian lives.
“Love and attraction between two men is universal and documented throughout history in various cultures,” a story on the group’s website read. “Homosexuality is not an appalling habit or lifestyle that one can pick up when living in the west as many of us have heard being said by our family, friends and community.
“Gay friendships are also a vital as in most cases become our second family. The people that some become increasingly reliant on when cut-off from traditional families.”
The group said in pursuit of your gay or lesbian goals, one does not necessarily abandon or neglect “other aspects of yourself - your culture and religion.
“Be who you are! It is a liberating feeling to embrace every aspect of yourself rather than live in denial and unhappiness.”
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afrol News - It is already a crime being homosexual in Ethiopia, but parliament is now making sure the anti-gay laws will be applied in practical life. No pardoning of gays will be allowed in future, but activist fear this only is a signal of further repression being prepared.
afrol News / Africa Renewal - Ethiopia's ambitious plan to build a US$ 4.2 billion dam in the Benishangul-Gumuz region, 40 km from its border with Sudan, is expected to provide 6,000 megawatts of electricity, enough for its population plus some excess it can sell to neighbouring countries.
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