Burkina Faso has introduced prison sentences of up to five years for promoting homosexuality, sending shockwaves through the country's LGBTQ+ community. The amendment to the Code of Persons and Family, announced on 1 September by Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala, establishes penalties of two to five years in prison and a fine for those who 'promote homosexuality'. Bayala described the move as 'a historic reform linked to a legal innovation, respect for cultural values and the will to build a Burkinabé family'.
First approved by President Ibrahim Traoré in July 2024, the law was unanimously passed by the transitional legislative assembly, which replaced parliament after a coup in September 2022. Until now, homosexuality was not mentioned in any legal document in Burkina Faso, making it a relatively safe haven for LGBTQ+ people from across West Africa. The new law also provides for the expulsion of non-nationals found engaging in homosexual practices and states that adoption of Burkinabé children requires acceptance of the country's rules.
Members of the queer community have expressed fear and distress. 'For my own safety I've become much more distrustful, I've shut myself off,' said Paul*, a young Burkinabé. Jules*, a homosexual man in Ouagadougou, added: 'Talking too much could complicate life for those of us who live here.' Agathe*, a lesbian, said she is 'very stressed about the situation and the safety of LGBTQ+ people'. The announcement, made at 8pm on a Monday, spread rapidly on social media, sparking both fear and hateful comments.
The law is part of a broader push across Africa for 'family values' that oppose abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. Uganda passed a similar anti-homosexuality act in May 2023, including the death penalty for 'aggravated homosexuality'. Mali introduced anti-gay legislation last year, and Kenya is considering a 'family protection' bill. Since the 2022 coup, Burkina Faso's authorities have emphasised national sovereignty and local traditions, expelling French troops and ending military cooperation with France. President Traoré enjoys strong popularity among youth, but the new law has left many despairing. 'My wish is to leave the country,' said Paul*. 'Here, it's very complicated and we cannot live our lives as we want.'
