A Journey of Purpose: Commissioner Dr. Dennis Wamalwa’s Impactful Presence at the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria

From the moment my boarding pass was issued for Johannesburg on 9 April 2025, I knew I wasn’t just traveling—I was carrying a message, a mission, and the voices of intersex persons across Africa. This wasn’t just another trip—it was a journey into a space of change, dialogue, and advocacy.

A Convening of Champions

My destination was the Southern Sun Hotel in Pretoria, for the NHRI Training on Resolutions 275 and 552, co-hosted by the Centre for Human Rights at the University of Pretoria, Sida, and the UN Independent Expert on SOGIESC rights. It brought together National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) from Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia, Eswatini, South Africa, and Kenya—all converging to sharpen continental efforts in defending the rights of transgender and intersex persons.

Pretoria greeted us with its crisp autumn breeze and scenic calm, while the venue burst with vibrant energy—murals of diversity and unity adorning the walls, a physical manifestation of the values we came to uphold.

Health Hurdles, Ubuntu Healing

But even with the beauty of the setting, my body told a different story. Almost immediately after arrival, I began experiencing climate-related health issues—a persistent fever and upset stomach. Though meals were inviting, I could barely eat. Still, I found strength not just within, but in those around me.

In a real-life demonstration of Ubuntu, colleagues stepped in—ensuring I stayed hydrated, received medication, and had enough rest between sessions. Their care was a silent message: you are not alone in this work.

Delivering Resolution 552: Lived Experience Meets Legal Advocacy

When it was time for my presentation, I anchored it in the power of lived experience. I began with a deeply personal story, setting the tone for a powerful session titled:

“Resolution 552: Promoting and Protecting the Rights of Intersex Persons in Africa”

My core messages were clear:

• Intersex people are not medical anomalies—they reflect natural human diversity.

• Resolution 552 calls for an end to non-consensual surgeries, infanticide, and systemic discrimination, while promoting bodily autonomy, legal recognition, and affirmative action.

• I spotlighted Kenya’s groundbreaking progress through the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR):

• Key Milestones from Kenya

  • 📊 Census 2019 officially counted 1,524 intersex persons

  • 🧑🏽‍⚖️ Appointed the first intersex commissioner in 2022

  • 📜 Over 30 intersex individuals engaged through affirmative action

  • 👶 Children’s Act 2022 recognized intersex children

  • 📚 Inclusion of intersex content in the CBC curriculum

  • 🏛️ Intersex Persons Bill 2024 under parliamentary review

  • 🌐 Formation of the Kenya Intersex Network (10+ orgs)

  • 🌍 Launch of the African Intersex Movement (AIM)

  • 📝 Legal Notice 153 now allows acknowledgment of intersex status in birth notifications

  • 🏥 SHIF documents updated to include third sex marker

This session was about placing human dignity at the center of policy—and Kenya’s journey stood as proof that progress is possible.

Strategic Vision for NHRIs

I challenged fellow NHRI representatives to translate Resolution 552 into action through:

• Legislative and policy reforms

• Medical and legal partnerships for ethical safeguards

• Community-level awareness campaigns

• Cross-border NHRI collaboration to tackle shared challenges

Every participant was urged to take the resolution home—not just in their folders, but in their hearts and mandates.

People, Power, and Presence

Beyond the sessions, relationships were built and wisdom exchanged. In a powerful group photo, I sat beside:

• Prof. Graeme Reid

• Chanel van der Linde (SOGIESC Unit)

• Laura Arudi (Network of African NHRIs)

We were surrounded by passionate colleagues from across the continent, each one bringing lived realities and bold ideas to the table. These interactions gave life to the policies we discussed.

The Podcast and the Applause

Though physically drained, I made time to record a podcast (to be shared soon), capturing the key takeaways of my session. It was a moment of reflection and reinforcement—a digital echo for those who couldn’t attend.

As I concluded my final remarks, summarizing the call to dismantle stigma, reform systems, and build intersex-affirming societies, the room erupted into a standing ovation.

It wasn’t just applause—it was affirmation. Not of me, but of the cause. Of the people we’re fighting for. Of the future we can shape—together.

Conclusion: The Journey Continues

On 12 April 2025, as I boarded my return flight from Johannesburg, I carried with me more than just a suitcase. I carried renewed conviction. The journey had been physically taxing but spiritually and politically empowering.

To those reading this:
Resolution 552 is not a suggestion—it’s a continental call to action.
And if Africa is to be a place of dignity, then we must ensure no one—regardless of sex traits—is left behind.

Let’s move forward with boldness, with compassion, and above all, with the belief that every person matters.