About Us
A national, sex worker–led movement — Only Rights Can Stop the Wrongs.
Who We Are
Established in 2009 and registered in 2013, KESWA is an umbrella body of formal and informal sex worker–led organizations. We amplify the voices of sex workers by connecting these organizations in their diversity to influence the intersectional needs of sex workers in Kenya. Over 90% of our board, advisory committee and staff are sex workers, and our membership spans more than 75 organizations across all 47 counties.
Purpose
To uphold the voice of sex workers and connect sub-national networks and individual sex worker–led organizations advocating for the rights of female, male and transgender sex workers — for recognition of sex work as work, freedom from punitive laws, rights-based health and social services, and self-determination.
A Kenyan society that recognizes sex work as work; where all sex workers are respected and their rights upheld; where no laws criminalize sex work; and where sex workers enjoy equal protection of their rights as foundational of a democratic society.
What Guides Us
Open and honest; we keep our members up to date on the movement, activities and resources.
Open, fair, accessible and equitable — we put people first.
We deliver on our promises and manage resources responsibly.
We take responsibility for our actions and omissions.
We value sex workers’ right to make informed choices about their lives.
The Change We Seek
Sex work is recognised as work
Sex workers are respected and their rights protected
Free from stigma and discrimination
Free from all types of violence
Universal access to health services and support
No criminalization; no legal punishment
Sex work not conflated with trafficking
Free choice of employment and economic security
Governance & Structure
Our work is delivered through KESWA Implementing Agencies, including Community Research Advisory Committees, the Young Sex Workers Forum, Cross-Movement Engagements with feminist and LGBTQ movements, and the Economic Empowerment Implementation & Management Committee.
Our members include HOYMAS, BHESP, Warembo Sasa, COSWA, KISWA, ESWA, Smart Ladies, Survivors, SWOP Ambassadors, Sisters of Majengo and many more — one national voice.
An umbrella body of sex worker–led organizations amplifying the voices of sex workers across all 47 counties of Kenya.
© 2026 Kenya Sex Workers Alliance (KESWA). All rights reserved.
