US Threatens to Restrict Aid to Ghana Over Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

The United States issued a stern warning to Ghana on Thursday, signaling potential repercussions if President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo signs a new bill criminalizing LGBTQ+ activities into law. The move comes as Ghana’s Parliament recently approved legislation that could impose prison sentences of up to three years for identifying as LGBTQ+ and five years for forming or supporting LGBTQ+ organizations.

US State Department spokesperson Matt Miller voiced concerns about the bill, emphasizing its potential chilling effect on foreign investment and tourism in Ghana. Miller hinted at possible ramifications for US assistance to the country, citing similar measures taken against Uganda in response to its anti-LGBTQ+ laws.

The enactment of the bill now rests with President Akufo-Addo, who has indicated his readiness to approve it if it aligns with the wishes of the majority of Ghanaians. However, the proposed legislation has sparked swift condemnation from the United States, echoing previous criticism directed at Uganda for its harsh anti-LGBTQ+ measures.

Ghanaian parliamentarian Sam George, the bill’s sponsor, celebrated its passage online, emphasizing the protection of national values. Yet, the move has raised concerns about Ghana’s tradition of tolerance and respect for human rights, with critics warning that the bill could undermine these values.

The United States provided over $211 million in assistance to Ghana in fiscal year 2022, supporting various sectors including agriculture, malaria prevention, and AIDS combat efforts. While the extent to which aid would be affected remains uncertain, the warning from the US underscores the seriousness of the situation.

Although many African nations criminalize same-sex relationships, recent legislative efforts across the continent have sought to reinforce such laws. In Uganda, for instance, the law includes severe penalties such as the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality” and life imprisonment for “homosexuality,” prompting the US to restrict $20 million in aid to the country.

As Ghana awaits President Akufo-Addo’s decision on the bill, the international community watches closely, with human rights advocates urging respect for LGBTQ+ rights and freedoms.