State-sponsored homophobia in Ghana is reaching alarming new levels. Same-sex relationships are already punishable by up to three years in prison, but a proposed law aims to increase the sentence to five years. Even more concerning, any form of “promotion, sponsorship, or support” for LGBTQ+ activities could also lead to criminal prosecution. If passed, Ghana will enforce one of the most repressive anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Africa.
The bill was initially approved by Ghana’s parliament in February 2024, but former President Nana Akufo-Addo left office without signing it. Now, ten lawmakers have reintroduced it, reigniting fear among the country’s queer community.
Ghanaian trans woman and LGBTQ+ activist Va-Bene Elikem Fiatsi describes the bill’s return as “heartbreaking and unbearable.” She warns that this law could be weaponized against activists, journalists, and anyone offering support to queer individuals. Yet, she remains resolute: the fight for LGBTQ+ rights will not stop.
Ghana’s own Ministry of Finance has raised red flags about the economic fallout this law could trigger. At stake? $3.8 billion in World Bank funding and a $3 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund, both of which could be jeopardized if the country continues down this path. Still, supporters of the bill argue that it upholds Ghana’s “cultural and religious values” and insist that foreign institutions should not interfere with national legislation.
Meanwhile, LGBTQ+ Ghanaians are left to wonder: how much longer will their very existence be treated as a crime?
This article was inspired by a story originally published on WINQ magazine, a leading platform highlighting LGBTQIA+ experiences and perspectives in The Netherlands.
You may also like
-
Ten Years After the Brussels Attacks, a City – and Its Queer Community – Still Carry the Shock
Ten years after the 22 March 2016 bombings at Brussels Airport and Maelbeek metro station,
-
Brussels Pride: from Gay Pride to Belgian Pride to a city that owns its colors
In 30 years, Brussels has gone from a small “Gay Pride” marched by a few
-
“Out of step, outlawed”: être homosexuel·le au Sénégal en 2026
While Brussels is gearing up for another Pride season, LGBTQI+ people in Senegal are facing
-
Brussels Pride 2026: registrations for Pride Village are open – be part of it!
Brussels Pride is turning 30, the far right is on the rise across Europe, and
-
Trump’s White House Dinner Excludes Gay Governor Jared Polis
At first glance, it reads like a matter of protocol. A White House dinner, a
