Across Africa, the topic of homosexuality is fraught with cultural, religious, and political tensions. In some countries, same-sex relationships are not only frowned upon but outright banned, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to death. The following are eight African nations where homosexuality is illegal.
Here are 8 African countries where homosexuality is Banned.. Simply put. Don’t be gay (if there’s such a thing) in any of these countries.
1. Nigeria
In Nigeria, homosexuality is heavily criminalized under both secular and Sharia law. The Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act (SSMPA), passed in 2014, outlaws same-sex relationships and public displays of affection, punishable by up to 14 years in prison. In northern states governed by Sharia law, the punishment for homosexuality can be as severe as death by stoning. Nigerian society, deeply influenced by religious and cultural beliefs, largely condemns homosexuality, and LGBTQ+ individuals face widespread discrimination and violence.
2. Sudan
Sudan’s legal system, deeply rooted in Islamic principles, criminalizes homosexuality. Although recent reforms abolished the death penalty for same-sex relationships, individuals convicted of homosexual acts can still face life imprisonment. First-time offenders are subjected to whipping and jail time. Sudanese society, predominantly conservative and Islamic, stigmatizes LGBTQ+ individuals, often forcing them to live in secrecy to avoid persecution and ostracism.
3. Egypt
Egypt does not explicitly outlaw homosexuality, but authorities use vague morality laws to target LGBTQ+ individuals. Charges of “debauchery” or “prostitution” are frequently used to prosecute those suspected of same-sex relationships. Convictions result in imprisonment, fines, and sometimes forced “conversion therapy.” Homosexuality is widely seen as a violation of Islamic and cultural norms, and LGBTQ+ individuals often face public shaming, violence, and police harassment.
4. Uganda
Uganda enforces some of the harshest anti-LGBTQ+ laws in the world. The Anti-Homosexuality Act, passed in 2023, imposes life imprisonment for same-sex relationships and the death penalty for aggravated homosexuality, which is defined as same-sex relations involving HIV-positive people, children or other vulnerable people. Anyone convicted of “attempted aggravated homosexuality” can be imprisoned for up to 14 years. Ugandans who engages in gay sex can receive life in prison, while anyone who attempts to have same-sex relations can face 10 years in prison. Ugandan society, influenced by conservative Christian beliefs and traditional norms, views homosexuality as a grave moral failing.
5. Zambia
Homosexuality in Zambia is criminalized under colonial-era laws that remain in effect today. Same-sex acts are punishable by up to 14 years in prison, and even attempts to engage in such acts are considered criminal. Zambian society, shaped by conservative cultural and religious values, strongly opposes LGBTQ+ rights. Public officials often denounce homosexuality as a Western influence, further marginalizing the LGBTQ+ community.
6. Tanzania
Under Tanzanian law, anyone who “has carnal knowledge of any person against the order of nature, or permits a male person to have carnal knowledge of him or her against the order of nature” commits a crime punishable on conviction by thirty years to life imprisonment.
An attempt to commit sodomy is also criminalized and is punishable on conviction by a minimum of twenty years of imprisonment.
7. Zambia
Formerly a colony of the British Empire, Zambia inherited the laws and legal system of its colonial master upon independence in 1964. Laws concerning homosexuality have largely remained unchanged since then.
According to this law, anyone who “has carnal knowledge of any person against the order of nature…or permits a male person to have carnal knowledge of him or her against the order of nature” commits a crime, and on conviction is punishable by fourteen years to life in prison. Attempt, which is also a crime, is punishable on conviction by a seven to fourteen-year prison term.
8. Mauritania
Before Mauritanian became independent in 1960, punishment for homosexual activity was limited to a maximum of three years in prison or a fine a of one million francs.
This old law was replaced by sharia law which was established around 1980.
The new sharia law sees sodomy as a crime against the Koran’s teachings and male Muslims convicted of homosexual acts are eligible for the death sentence.
Last updated in November 2024
