Title: Homosexual Behavior as a Moral Issue in Tanzania: Qualitative Findings from Homosexuals in Njombe District, Tanzania

Authors: Johnson L. Gudaga

 Johnson L. Gudaga *1 Amani College of Management and Technology (ACMT), Department of Community Development P.O.BOX 958 Njombe.
*Correspondence: johngudaga85@gmail.com

Abstract

Although homosexuality is legally prohibited in Tanzania, there are numerous cases related to homosexual practices in the country. However, there is limited information on factors that influence individuals to adopt homosexual behavior. This knowledge of homosexual behavior is important because it helps to provide insights on factors that influence individuals to accept homosexuality. This knowledge of homosexual behavior is also vital when addressing moral issues including homosexuality in the country. The study was conducted in Njombe Town and Makambako Town, Njombe District, Njombe Region between July 2023 and January 2024. It adopted a cross-sectional research design with qualitative techniques. Exponential non–discriminatory snow ball sampling was used to obtain respondents, particularly homosexuals in the study area. A semi-structured interview was used to collect the intended data whereby the researcher had an opportunity to explore information related to interviewees’ views on the factors that lead to homosexual matters. The study involved sixteen homosexuals, whereas nine were gay and seven respondents were lesbians. Data were subjected to content analysis. The study attempts to uncover the factors that influenced individuals to adopt homosexual behavior in the study area. Results have shown prevalence of homosexuality practices in the study area. Such behavior was influenced by peer group relationship, poverty among youth, bad upbringing and sexual dissatisfaction among heterosexual couples. Thorough initiatives of addressing homosexuality behavior in the study area are needed.

Keywords: Homosexual, Homosexual behavior, qualitative study, Social Learning Theory, Tanzania.