A gospel singer has set tongues wagging after revealing he is gay while also insisting his intention of coming out is to let people know that ‘being gay is normal’.
Speaking to the BBC, the 35-year-old Rwandese gospel singer Albert Nabonibo said that there are many gay people in churches today but they have chosen to hide.
“In fact, there are many like me, even in churches, the fact is that they hide it because of the mentality of the faithful and the community and for their safety. I feel sorry for people like me who live in fear, they should go out to be heard, because we have to be treated like other people. (Ukweli ni kwamba kuna watu wengi kama mimi makanisani ni vile tu wanafanya siri mahusiano yao kwa sababu ya kuhofia kuhukumiwa na waumini wengine na jamii nzima kwa ujumla. Pia wanahofia usalama wao),” Nabonibo was quoted by BBC Swahili.
According to the singer, he has been gay for six years stating that he has received numerous insults since he openly declared his sexuality.
He said he is ready to live with the consequences of being gay, provided he has now spoken out.
“Some have insulted me, some have called me crazy and some stupid, but there are some who understand me, like my brother who always encouraged me to be whom I am. I will live with those who accept me and those who reject me, know it will be a daily battle. (Baadhi ya watu wananitukana na wengine wananiita mjinga. Lakini kuna wale wanaonielewa - kwa mfano ndugu yangu ananitia moyo na kunishauri nijikubali nilivyo),” noted the musician who promised to continue ‘singing for God.’
Nabonibo becomes the first gospel musician in Rwanda to declare his sexuality.
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