Africans Face Rising tide of Anti — LGBTQ Legislation BODY: Accra, Ghana – A distressing trend is gaining momentum across Africa as several countries have introduced or intensified anti-LGBTQ legislation, criminalizing same-sex relations and posing a significant threat to LGBTQ+ rights. This shift, marked by severe penalties including prison sentences and, in some cases, the death penalty, has sparked global concern and debate.
In 2023, Uganda set a grim precedent with the adoption of one of the world’s most stringent anti-LGBTQ laws, imposing the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality. “Burkina Faso followed suit in September 2025, imposing prison terms of up to five years for same-sex relations. Niger, in February 2025, adopted a penal code with sentences of up to 20 years for same-sex marriage.
Senegal doubled sentences for same — sex relations in March 2026, with penalties ranging from five to 10 years. Ghana’s parliament passed a bill in May imposing prison terms of up to three years for same-sex relations, or up to five years for “promoting “them. Ugandan rights activist Agather Atuhaire suggests that politicians exploit homophobic sentiments to gain popularity, using LGBTQ+ individuals as “scapegoats “to deflect attention from pressing issues. “.
Politicians in this country know that their society is very highly homophobic, so they want something that is going to put them in their good books, “she told AFP. “LGBT+ people are scapegoats who get used to divert attention from the real problems facing the country. “French-Senegalese expert Marame Kane emphasizes the dangerous game politicians are playing, with real consequences for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Officials commented on the matter.
The introduction of these laws has been met with widespread criticism from human rights organizations and the international community.
The United Nations has expressed concern over the increasing trend of anti — LGBTQ legislation, calling for respect for human rights and the protection of LGBTQ+ individuals. Despite the challenges, LGBTQ+ activists across Africa continue to fight for their rights, arguing that these laws infringe on the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and perpetuate discrimination and social stigma.
The situation in Africa highlights the complex interplay between politics, culture, and human rights.
As these laws continue to spread, the future of LGBTQ+ rights on the continent remains uncertain.
The new wave of anti — LGBTQ legislation in Africa underscores the need for a broader conversation about human rights and social norms.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: AfricaNews
