In a continent that widely frowns at the LGBTQ+ community, many prominent African politicians have their children as a part of it.
Many are based abroad, where they can breathe easier. However, their roots as Africans and their parents’ prominence keep pulling them back into the conversation.
Here is a list of some children of prominent African politicians who are queer. 
1. Brenda Biya
The first daughter of Cameroon, Brenda Biya, posted some loved-dovey photos with her Brazilian partner in 2024, which got the internet talking.
She lives freely in Switzerland. The 26-year-old president’s daughter speaks openly about hope for legal change back in Cameroon, a country where same-sex relationships are criminalised.
2. Zawadi Nyong’o
Yes, you guessed right. She’s Lupita Nyong’o’s sister.
In late 2025, Zawadi, the daughter of Kisumu governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, proudly shared her partner and child. She received so much love from her siblings publicly.
This is a Kenyan family that has always stood for excellence and authenticity. Governor Nyong’o’s political journey continues, it seems everyone has adjusted to her reality.
3. Habibat Oyindamola Tinubu
Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu’s daughter Habibat, also known as Oyindamola. Through modelling in the US and her past social media reflections, she’s been linked to queer identity and advocacy.
In a nation with strong traditional values, she’s been open about her beliefs. The Tinubus keep private matters private, but Oyinda’s visibility gives the internet something to say.
4. Anselm Besigye
In Uganda, there is Anselm Besigye, son of opposition leaders Dr Kizza Besigye and Winnie Byanyima.
Anselm’s gender-fluid style and expressions of queerness have sparked online debates.
In a country where anti-homosexuality laws have drawn international attention, the prominent parents have also faced public scrutiny over their son.
However, his mother publicly affirms her pride in his brilliance having gotten a scholarship for his Phd at the University of Columbia right after bagging his Master’s. As opposition leaders they still are active, navigating cultural and political pressures from the country.
ALSO READ: Being Gay = Death: African Countries With The Toughest Punishments for Homosexuality
5. Bolu Okupe
In Nigeria, Bolu Okupe, son of politician and former presidential spokesperson Doyin Okupe, has been openly gay for years. His fitness-model confidence clashes visibly with his father’s conservative public stance and Christian values.
Doyin Okupe, served under former President Goodluck Jonathan during the signing of stringent anti-gay legislation. After his son’s gay announcement on Instagram, he responded with a mix of personal disapproval and acknowledgement of their differing views.
“For me I look beyond the surface or the physical. Here I see a major spiritual challenge… But I know as my God liveth, this whole saga will end up in Praise to the Almighty Jehova who I serve day and night,” Doyin Okupe said in a Facebook post.
6. Oseloka Obi
Peter Obi’s only son, Oseloka, is a talented British-Nigerian actor and filmmaker in the UK. Pictures of him and a British-Nigerian guy, Kent Okwesa sitting closely together in a London restaurant circulated online in 2025 made him face serious online speculation about his personal life.
From his work in theatre and the London creative scene, which is an all-inclusive community, rumours have swirled.
Oseloka has however pushed back firmly. calling them politically motivated and urging focus on bigger national issues.
“The truth is simple: Peter Obi’s son appears in photos with his friends and colleagues, nothing more. These rumours are malicious falsehoods born out of political obsession with my family,” he said.
About The Author
