Senegal has convicted someone for the first time under its new, stricter homosexuality law. A man in Pikine-Guédiawaye near Dakar received a six-year prison sentence. The ruling shows how quickly the new rules are being applied in West Africa.

Senegal toughened penalties for homosexual conduct last year. Maximum sentences increased to five years imprisonment. This first conviction demonstrates the country will enforce the law strictly. Human rights organisations warn this approach causes more discrimination and unsafe conditions.

The conviction coincides with growing tensions over LGBTQ+ rights across Africa. Several countries are strengthening their laws against homosexuality. Rights groups say this leads to violence and exclusion of gay, lesbian, and transgender persons.

Senegal's government has not commented on the ruling. Lawyers for the convicted man are considering filing an appeal. International organisations are calling on Senegal to change its laws. They urge better protection of homosexual people's rights.