Legislators in Senegal have approved a new law that increases punishment for same-sex relationships.
This decision was finalized on Wednesday, 12 March 2026, by the members of parliament in the capital city, Dakar.
The bill was supported by the government led by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko.
The law was introduced to strengthen existing rules that criminalise same-sex acts in the country.
The bill was approved with 135 votes in favour, none against, and three abstentions.
Under the new law, people found guilty of same-sex sexual acts could face up to 10 years imprisonment and fines of up to 10 million CFA francs.
This is much stricter than the previous law, which allowed prison sentences of up to five years and lower fines.Those who are in support of the bill said the earlier law was too vague and not strict enough.
The new law also states that judges cannot give suspended sentences or reduce prison terms below the minimum punishment.
The legislation also makes it illegal to promote or finance activities related to homosexuality.
This means people who organise or support such activities could also face prison time.Before the vote, supporters of the law held demonstrations in Dakar.
Protesters carried signs and called for stronger laws against homosexuality.Human rights organisations have raised concerns about the law.
According to the International Federation for Human Rights, 27 men were arrested between 9 February and 24 February on suspicion of committing “acts against nature”.
The new law is part of a wider trend in the region.
Burkina Faso recently passed a law criminalising same-sex relations for the first time, while lawmakers in Ghana are considering a bill that could increase penalties for same-sex acts and the promotion of LGBTQ+ activities.
Sub-Editor : Thibela Thandeka
