Burkina Faso’s transitional parliament has unanimously passed a bill criminalising homosexual acts, imposing prison terms of two to five years and fines on offenders.
The legislation, approved on Monday, now awaits the signature of military ruler Capt. Ibrahim Traoré, who seized power in 2022.
Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala told state media that foreign nationals found guilty would also be deported.
Until now, Burkina Faso was one of just 22 African countries where same-sex relations were not criminalised, unlike in many other states where punishments range from long-term imprisonment to death sentences.
The change marks a sharp departure from the country’s post-independence legal tradition; unlike former British colonies, Burkina Faso did not inherit anti-homosexuality statutes from France in 1960.
The move aligns with a wider regional trend. Neighbouring Mali, also under military rule, banned homosexuality last year.
Nigeria and Uganda have some of the continent’s toughest anti-LGBT laws, with Uganda imposing life imprisonment and even capital punishment in certain cases.
International institutions have condemned such measures.
The World Bank last year suspended loans to Uganda over its anti-LGBT law before later lifting the ban.
Burkina Faso’s decision highlights the growing momentum across West and Central Africa to restrict LGBT rights, often under pressure from religious and conservative groups.
Rights advocates warn it risks deepening discrimination, while supporters argue it upholds cultural and moral values.
Source: Myxyzonline.com
