Tanzania is moving to reinforce its legal stance against same-sex relationships, joining a growing number of African nations standing firm against what they describe as foreign-imposed values that contradict traditional African principles.
Tanzania’s Legislative Action
The Tanzanian government is advancing amendments to its Penal Code through the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, which will further solidify the country’s prohibition against same-sex unions. Deputy Minister for Constitution and Legal Affairs Jumanne Sagini emphasized:
“Our laws and cultural heritage recognize marriage strictly as a union between a man and woman. We will not compromise on this fundamental principle.”
The move follows growing calls from Tanzanian lawmakers to strengthen legal protections for traditional family structures.
Africa’s United Stance
Tanzania’s position reflects a broader continental resistance to Western pressure on LGBTQ matters:
Uganda recently passed stringent legislation against homosexuality, with President Yoweri Museveni stating: “We shall never surrender our values to foreign interests.”
Ghana’s parliament overwhelmingly approved tough new restrictions, supported by Christian and Muslim leaders
Nigeria maintains some of Africa’s strictest prohibitions, with widespread public support
Kenya’s former President Uhuru Kenyatta famously told the BBC: “This is not an issue of human rights, but of our national values. Homosexuality has no place in our culture.”
Western Pressure Meets African Resolve
Several Western governments and international organizations have attempted to tie aid and trade agreements to LGBTQ acceptance, drawing sharp rebukes from African leaders:
“We cannot be lectured about morality by nations where traditional family structures are collapsing,” remarked a senior Tanzanian official who requested anonymity due to diplomatic sensitivities.
Analysts note that Africa’s position represents:
A rejection of perceived cultural imperialism
A defense of religious and traditional values
An assertion of national sovereignty in social policy
With Tanzania’s bill progressing and other African nations maintaining similar positions, the continent appears set on what Kenyan Bishop David Oginde calls “the African way – preserving the family as God and our ancestors intended.”