Kenya is a generally homophobic country where homosexuality is
criminalised and people who engage in same sex sexuality face stigma and
discrimination. In 2013, we developed a 16 min documentary entitled "Facing Our Fears"
that aimed at sharing information on how and why men who have sex with
men (MSM) are involved in on-going KEMRI HIV prevention research, and
associated community engagement. To consider the film's usefulness as a
communication tool, and its perceived security risks in case the film
was publicly released, we conducted nine facilitated viewings with 122
individuals representing seven different stakeholder groups. The
documentary was seen as a strong visual communication tool with
potential to reduce stigma related to homosexuality, and facilitated
film viewings were identified as platforms with potential to support
open dialogue about HIV research involving MSM. Despite the potential,
there were concerns over possible risks to LGBT communities and those
working with them following public release. We opted-giving emphasis to
the "do no harm" principle-to use the film only in facilitated settings
where audience knowledge and attitudes can be carefully considered and
discussed. The results highlight the importance of carefully assessing
the range of possible impacts when using visuals in community
engagement.