Same-sex marriage is not allowed in Ghana
Same sex | In August 2018, President Akufo-Addo declared that the Government of Ghana would not legalize same-sex marriage or decriminalize homosexuality. He stated, “Same-sex marriage may be legalized in Ghana someday, but not during my presidency.” Numerous public officials from both government and church organizations have openly opposed the same-sex (LGBT) community.
Listen as the President of Ghana speaks over same sex
Same sex | Section 104 of the Ghanaian Criminal Code, enacted in 1960, criminalizes consensual same-sex sexual activities between males, with a penalty of up to three years in prison.
Ghana passed a significant bill against LGBTQ+ act
In February 2024, Ghana’s parliament passed a significant bill that has implications for the LGBTQ+ community. Here are the key points:
Same sex | Criminalization of Identifying as LGBTQ+
The new bill makes it a crime to identify as LGBTQ+ in Ghana.
Anyone convicted of identifying as LGBTQ+ could face a prison sentence of up to three years.
Additionally, forming or funding LGBTQ+ groups is punishable by a maximum five-year jail term.
Lawmakers rejected attempts to replace prison sentences with community service and counseling
Same sex | Growing Opposition to LGBTQ+ Rights
This development reflects the increasing resistance to LGBTQ+ rights in the conservative West African nation.
The bill received support from both of Ghana’s major political parties.
Its enactment depends on whether President Nana Akufo-Addo signs it into law. He previously expressed willingness to do so if the majority of Ghanaians support it.
Notably, gay sex is already illegal in Ghana, carrying a three-year prison sentence.
Same sex | Concerns and Warnings
Amnesty International has raised concerns about the bill, stating that it “poses significant threats to the fundamental rights and freedoms” of LGBTQ+ people.
Activists fear that the legislation may lead to witch-hunts against LGBTQ+ community members and those advocating for their rights.
The head of the UN body addressing AIDS, Winnie Byanyima, warned that the bill could incite violence, hinder access to services, and jeopardize Ghana’s development
Origins of the Bill
The bill was drafted in response to the opening of Ghana’s first LGBTQ+ community center in the capital, Accra, in January 2021.
Public protests, pressure from religious bodies, and traditional leaders led to the closure of the center.
Religious organizations argued that being LGBTQ+ was “alien to the Ghanaian culture and family value system” and therefore unacceptable.
Watered-Down Version
The bill approved by lawmakers is a revised version of an earlier draft.
Jail terms have been shortened, and a controversial clause on conversion therapy has been removed.
The bill also encourages the public to report LGBTQ+ community members to authorities for “necessary action.”
In summary, Ghana’s new legislation reflects a challenging environment for LGBTQ+ individuals, with potential implications for their rights, safety, and well-being.
For the latest and current news, visit Gateway2Africa, and don’t forget to explore our Spotify playlists.
Pingback: Magufuli Gets Thumb Up To Mega Fullness - Gateway2Africa