Sierra Leone remains one of the West African countries where the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals are neither recognized nor protected. Those who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community face severe persecution—often with little to no intervention from the police or other law enforcement agencies. Despite years of advocacy and appeals from human rights organizations, Sierra Leone has refused to enact laws safeguarding LGBTQ+ people, describing such practices as taboo and contrary to local customs and traditions. Even in the capital city, Freetown—where one might expect greater freedom—LGBTQ+ individuals live in constant fear. Community members often mobilize mobs of youths to hunt down suspected gay individuals. When caught, victims are subjected to brutal beatings and torture, sometimes resulting in death. In some cases, escaping mob violence offers no safety, as the police may also target and arrest victims simply for being gay. Reports indicate that cases involving violence against LGBTQ+ persons are frequently dismissed or mishandled by the police, who often share the same cultural and religious biases as the broader society. The only “crime” committed by victims is their sexual orientation—a practice that remains illegal and socially condemned in Sierra Leone. Cultural and religious beliefs play a major role in this discrimination. Many view homosexuality as a violation of traditional norms and an affront to Sierra Leonean values. A recent example is the death of Lamin Bangura, who reportedly died from injuries sustained after being tortured when caught with another man, Alhaji Conteh, in a private act. Alhaji, who survived the attack with his boyfriend, has fled the country in search of safety. His life is no longer secure in Sierra Leone. According to sources, more than 50 young LGBTQ+ individuals have fled their communities due to persistent threats from both religious leaders and law enforcement officials. The Sierra Leone Police, acting under direct state authority, have been accused of conducting crackdowns on suspected LGBTQ+ people across the country. One anonymous source told this reporter: “We live in constant fear. If the police don’t get us, the community will. Many of us have gone into hiding because being ourselves means risking death.”These violent persecutions have become increasingly common, especially in Freetown and the provincial areas. Victims often face mob attacks, ostracism by family members, and the destruction of their homes by angry youths. Despite periodic media reports and advocacy efforts by human rights groups, government action has remained minimal. LGBTQ+ individuals continue to live under the constant threat of violence, discrimination, and death—without legal protection or social acceptance.
As it stands, being LGBTQ+ in Sierra Leone is not just taboo—it can be a death sentence.
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