Ghana and Niger are among the latest countries to pass legislation imposing heavy penalties for LGBTQ+activity  — including, in some cases, for allies who show support.

Niger's law is already in force; Ghana's bill has passed parliament but still awaits the president's signature. 

Author and researcher Haley McEwen tells DW that US Christian groups have been pumping millions of dollars into efforts to influence LGBTQ and reproductive laws in Africa.