Kenya is a relatively conservative society and gay sex is illegal, punishable by up to 14 years in prison, although it is unclear if any convictions have been brought.
However, the Supreme Court last year upheld a ruling allowing LGBT people the right to associate and register a human rights organization.
Judge Reuben Nyakundi ruled that evidence, including DNA tests, linked the accused to the murder.
Evidence also showed that the suspect sexually assaulted Chiloba before killing him.
The judge said the prosecution had proven the suspect’s deliberate intent and deep hatred for the victim.
“He was a young man who you strangled until he lost his life in the prime of his life. You were close friends and you should have protected his life,” said the judge.
The court did not make any findings about the motive for the murder.
Chiloba’s body was found in early January last year with socks stuffed in her mouth and a piece of denim tied over her face.
A post-mortem examination revealed that he died from lack of oxygen as a result of asphyxiation.
Adhiamba, who is believed to have been in a relationship with the deceased, was accused of murdering Chiloba between December 31, 2022. until January 3, 2023. He denied these accusations.
Prosecutors said in a statement to X on Wednesday that they had presented the testimony of 23 witnesses “who detail the events leading up to Chiloba’s death and prove beyond reasonable doubt that (Odhiamba) intentionally caused the wrongful death.”
The National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission said the “landmark decision” was a “significant step towards justice for Edwin and all LGBTQ people in Kenya, Africa and beyond”.
Adhiambo is due to be sentenced on December 16.
