Following threatens to the LGBTQI+ community in certain parts of the Ghana the United States Embassy has advised travellers to “Exercise Increased Caution” due to emerging threats against LGBTQI+ individual.
The warning issued on November 20, 2023, according to Daily Graphic reports comes in the wake of violent crimes and attack on against LGBTQI+ community in Bono East, Bono, Savannah, Northern, North East, and Upper East regions.
The embassy warns of violent crimes such as carjacking and street mugging, emphasizing that these incidents often occur at night and in isolated locations.
The alert said violent crimes are a concern, and travellers should exercise increased caution, especially in urban areas, crowded markets, and when travelling after dark, where criminal elements may use blockades to restrict movement. Areas near the northern border in the Upper East and Upper West regions are highlighted for heightened caution due to security issues.
The advisory also noted that the U.S. government may have limited ability to provide emergency services to US citizens in Ghana, as local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to serious crimes.
The alert addressed the challenges faced by LGBTQI+ travellers in Ghana, citing prohibitions in Ghanaian law on “unlawful carnal knowledge” between persons of the same sex. Punishments for such activities can include fines and incarceration.
The advisory highlights the increase in anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence in recent years, with reported incidents of targeted assaults, rape, mob attacks, and harassment.
