France, April 1 -- President Bassirou Diomaye Faye signed the law after it was published in the official journal on Tuesday, finalising legislation that parliament had already approved on 11 March by an overwhelming majority - 135 votes in favour, none against and three abstentions.

With no legal challenge lodged, the measure took effect immediately.

Same-sex relations, described in the law as "acts against nature of a sexual character between two persons of the same sex", now carry prison sentences of five to 10 years, up from one to five years.

Fines can reach 10 million CFA francs, or about €15,200. The maximum penalty applies if the act involves a minor.

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