Kenyan author Binyavanga Wainaina on being gay in Africa

Leading Kenyan author Binyavanga Wainaina has come out to say he is gay, making him one of the most high-profile Africans to do so.

Homosexual acts are illegal in Kenya and many other African states.

He made the disclosure in an article entitled: I am a homosexual, mum, coinciding with his 43rd birthday - at a time there is a fierce debate about gay rights in several African countries.

Nigeria has recently passed legislation tightening restrictions on homosexual groups, while Uganda's president has blocked a similar bill.

Mr Wainaina told BBC Newsday's Chris Mason why he chose to make his announcement now.

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