10 African countries with the longest prison sentences for homosexuality

Many African countries have strict laws against same-sex unions. These laws frequently carry harsh punishments, including lengthy jail terms and, in some circumstances, the death penalty. Anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is aggressively implemented in countries such as Nigeria and Uganda.

Beyond legal obstacles, deeply held cultural and religious beliefs contribute to prejudice against LGBTQ+ people. Many African communities are conservative, having conventional views on gender and sexuality. Homosexuality is frequently regarded as a taboo, an offense to cultural and moral standards. In many areas, LGBTQ+ persons endure social exclusion, harassment, and violence.

Religious leaders in both Christian and Muslim societies routinely denounce homosexuality. Regardless, of these obstacles, there is a rising movement of LGBTQ+ activists and allies across Africa calling for change.

International pressure and assistance can also influence tolerance. Global human rights groups and foreign governments often speak against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and campaign for the protection of LGBTQ+ rights throughout Africa, as was the case with Uganda’s new anti-gay laws.

Despite this, homosexuality is still widely frowned upon in most African countries and can lead to severe legal punishments.

A report by BBC revealed that 64 countries have laws that criminalize homosexuality, and nearly half of these are in Africa.

“Some countries, including several in Africa, have recently moved to decriminalize same-sex unions and improve rights for LGBTQ people. But there are countries where existing laws outlawing homosexuality have been tightened, including Nigeria and Uganda,” the report reads.

With that said here are the 10 African countries with the longest max prison sentences for homosexuality, according to the ILGA database. According to the database, of Africa’s 54 countries, 30 criminalize consensual same-sex sexual acts, and in some areas, the death penalty still exists.