Tanzania: Anti-LGBT crackdown nationwide

Event

The governor the capital Dar es Salaam announced the creation of a social media taskforce on Monday, October 29, aimed at locating and prosecuting LGBT people. He also called on the population to report any suspected homosexual acts, stating that those arrested could face up to 30 years in jail.

Accusations have already begun (as of November 2) and rights groups have urged foreign donors to take immediate measures to pressure the government to abandon the campaign. Further related actions targeting LGBT groups are likely in the near-term.

Context

Homosexual acts are illegal in Tanzania, where homophobia and extra-judicial attacks have been on the rise since President John Magufuli's election in 2015. Pro-LGBT groups have been persecuted and activists arrested in the past. Authorities have also suspended HIV/AIDS prevention programs for gay men.

A previous crackdown on the LGBT community carried out in 2016 was eventually abandoned due to condemnation by the international community.

Advice

Those present in Tanzania are advised to maintain a low profile and adhere to local social norms due to the risk of arrest and/or violence against the LGBT community.