GNP+ is saddened by the death of gay rights activist David Kato in Uganda. One of the founders of SMUG (Sexual Minorities Uganda), David Kato was a brave advocate for the rights of sexual minorities in an often hostile environment.

According to the Global Network of People living with HIV, promoting and supporting the human rights for sexual minorities has a direct positive impact on the HIV response. Open participation of key populations such as MSM and transgender people, in the realization of their sexual and reproductive health and rights, is one of the cornerstones of an effective HIV response.

Kato played a central role in Ugandan gay rights activism, winning support of Uganda’s human rights commission against his country’s draft “anti-homosexuality bill”. His successfulcourt case over the publication of his name and picture in newspapers calling for the hanging of gays and lesbians in Uganda, has set an inspiring example to thousands around the world.

While the Ugandan police have arrested the alleged murderer of Kato, the challenges facing men who have sex with men in Uganda remain. The fight for the human rights for sexual minorities and people living with HIV are inextricably linked and the efforts of David Kato in this struggle will be severely missed.