Zim Now Writer
Burkina Faso has officially outlawed homosexuality, making it punishable by prison time and fines.
The legislation, passed on Monday by 71 members of the transitional assembly, introduces jail terms of two to five years for those found guilty of engaging in same-sex relations.
Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala confirmed the development, saying offenders will also face financial penalties.
“If a person is a perpetrator of homosexual or similar practices, they will go before the judge,” Bayala said, adding that foreign nationals convicted under the law would be deported.
The law, which takes effect immediately, was introduced under the transitional government led by President Ibrahim Traoré. Traoré came to power following two coups in 2022, and his administration has since pledged to overhaul governance and strengthen family and citizenship laws.
Officials said the new measure will be rolled out with a public awareness campaign.
The move places Burkina Faso among the majority of African nations where homosexuality remains criminalised.
Neighbouring Mali adopted similar laws in late 2024, while Uganda and Ghana have also recently expanded penalties for same-sex relationships.
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