Ghanaian LGBTQ+ activist Radia Sambare has reportedly been assaulted by local residents in Olebu, a suburb of Accra, following her involvement with a 19-year-old.
Witnesses say she suffered severe head injuries after being struck with various objects during the attack on Tuesday, September 21, 2021.
Ghana continues to experience high levels of violence against LGBTQ+ individuals, with reports indicating that such attacks often go unpunished.
Sambare, a political scientist and media consultant, has been a vocal advocate against gender discrimination and has repeatedly criticised community leaders for their role in fostering hostility toward LGBTQ+ individuals.
Her activism has made her a target, as some local groups see her advocacy as a threat.
Ghana has faced increasing scrutiny over its stance on LGBTQ+ rights. A proposed bill, known as the “Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill,” has further fueled tensions.
The bill was introduced months after the opening of Ghana’s first LGBTQ+ community centre in Accra, which was shut down by police following public protests and pressure from government and religious groups.
The centre, intended as a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals, became a focal point for controversy, with many of its members facing threats and harassment both online and in person.
