Issues of same-sex relationships, gay and lesbian rights are the subject of public and political controversy in many Cameroon. Frequently, these controversies receive widespread attention both locally and globally, such as with the Anti-Homosexuality law(347-1) which provides severe punishment for anyone having sexual relations with a person of the same sex with imprisonment for from 6months to 5 years with a fine of from 20000frs – 200000frs. These cases tend to be presented as revealing a deeply-rooted homophobia in Cameroon fuelled by politicians and cultural traditions. But so far little energy is expended in understanding these controversies in all their complexity and the critical role politics plays in all this.
What is their History
Over the past decades, Most politicians in Cameroon and around Africa have understood the existence of Homophobia in Cameroon and have been using It to their advantage. Knowing very well that most people say Homosexuality is antiafrican, most politicians have used this to their advantage to gain political popularity and go as far as winning elections. This is so because during their campaigns, they promise the masses that they will fight all western ideologies being imposed on them especially the subject or question of LGBTIQ persons.
The fact that Cameroon’s society is characterised by a strongly homophobic climate is unhelpful. Homosexuality is not only condemned by the media, but also strongly opposed by religious figures. Police officers and civilians are instigated to oppress the LGBTIQ community on the misconception that, as homosexuals are not recognised, they do not hold legal rights. This represents a clear breach of Article 2 of the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights, which states that the principle of non-discrimination provides the foundation for the enjoyment of all human rights.
The plight of LGBTIQ+ persons
Minorities are subjected to harassment, intimidation and even death by homophobic fanatics and conservative leaders as they try to impose their own interpretation of religious scriptures and punish those who do not agree with their interpretation of religious precepts and follow their rulings. Application of such measures has impacted the safety and security of the gender-minority community, as its members are forced to hide their identities, and cannot speak about their sexual orientation. Government agencies and civil society organizations do not advocate for the rights of this community, and deliberately avoid any discussion about them, fearing a backlash from forces of law and order who are ever ready to crackdown on any person who is pro LGBTIQ. A lack of public education and social awareness programs about the gender-minority community has contributed to the perpetuation of discrimination, hatred and bigotry toward them − a community that is part and parcel of the social fabric of modern Cameroon.
Working for Our Wellbeing 