Mozambique Decriminalises Gay And Lesbian Relationships

Mozambique has decriminalised homosexuality in its new penal code, making it one of a few African countries where same-sex relationships are legal.

The revised code, in force from Wednesday, drops a colonial-era clause outlawing “vices against nature”.

There were no prosecutions under that clause but rights activists have said this change is a symbolic victory.

It comes as other African countries have moved to tighten anti-gay laws.

In Nigeria, a law that came into force last year banned same-sex public displays of affection and introduced a possible 14-year prison sentence for gay sex.

A study released on Tuesday found that 87% of Nigerians supported a ban on same-sex relations.

In Uganda, the government has pledged to introduce a new restrictive law after the last law which criminalised homosexuality was successfully challenged in the constitutional court.