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Frank Mugisha recognized for work fighting homophobia in Uganda
Ugandan human rights defender Frank Mugisha. (Photo courtesy of X)One of Uganda’s leading human Rights advocates, Dr, Frank Mugisha has been awarded the 2026 Inamori Ethics Prize by the Inamori International Center for Ethics and Excellence based at Case Western Reserve University in the United States.Mugisha, who is currently the executive director of Sexual Minorities Uganda (SMUG), is being recognized for his dedication to and advocacy for human rights in Uganda, where anti-LGBTQI+ sentiments are very high.“It is truly humbling to be recognized alongside the inspiring work of previous Inamori Ethics Prize recipients,” Mugisha said shortly after being announced winner.The Inamori Ethics Prize has been awarded since 2008 to outstanding international ethical leaders whose actions and influence have greatly improved the condition of humankind. Previous recipients have included civil rights attorney and Children’s Defense Fund founder Marian Wright Edelman, for her successes in improving the lives of children, and actor LeVar Burton, for his work in support of AIDS research and children’s literacy.“This recognition inspires me greatly and means so much not only to me personally but also to the communities I have the privilege to serve. It strengthens our resolve to continue advancing human rights, equality and ethical leadership,” Mugisha says.The President of Case Western Reserve University Eric W. Kaler says he has no doubt in his mind that Mugisha deserved the 2026 prize.“Mr. Mugisha’s dedication to and advocacy for human rights is inspiring. Driven by impact and propelled by purpose, Mr. Mugisha is changing lives around the world,” Kaler says.Mugisha has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of the LGBTQI+ community in Uganda since he was fourteen, a journey that has earned him both allies and enemies.“Frank Mugisha reflects the very spirit of the Inamori International Center for Ethics and Excellence—grounded in human dignity, global awareness, and moral courage. His leadership challenges us to see beyond differences and to strengthen our common humanity,” Case Western Reserve Provost Joy K. Ward says.Mugisha has been and remains an active player in all court petitions challenging the homophobic legislations and court rulings, including the current appeal against Anti-Homosexuality Act in the Supreme Court of Uganda.His advocacy work has on several occasions put his life in serious danger, but this has never broken his spirit of activism. He has remained ‘solid’ and hopeful that his efforts will pay off.According to the Inamori Center Director Eileen Anderson, Frank Mugisha embodies moral courage in its highest form.See Also
“For more than two decades, he has led the fight for human dignity and equality in Uganda, transforming personal risk into global impact,” Anderson says.The Inamori Ethics Prize is not Mugisha’s first international recognition. He is a recipient of the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award and the Thorolf Rafto Memorial Prize. He was a 2014 nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize, one of Fortune magazine’s 2017 World’s Greatest Leaders, and named among the 100 Most Influential People of 2024 by TIME magazine.The announcement of Frank Mugisha as the 2026 Inamori Ethics Prize winner was received with joy by allies in Uganda.“Congratulations to you, Frank. Your trailblazing and courageous work has saved many lives and challenged many beliefs and cultures. Godspeed” Human Rights Lawyer Nicholas Opiyo wrote on X.“Huge congratulations to Frank Mugisha on winning the 2026 Inamori Ethics Prize! We’re honored to celebrate a fearless advocate for human rights and justice. Well deserved!” says Kuchu Times Media Group in a post on X.Mugisha will be formerly accept the prize during the 2026 Inamori Ethics Prize events in September at the Case Western Reserve campus.
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