In a recent interview with France's TV5 Monde, Youssou N'Dour has urged the West to respect the religious and cultural beliefs of Africans.

When asked about his views on homosexuality, the Senegalese superstar said: "The West should stop imposing their views on Africa and cease using gay rights as a criterion for aid allocations."

The rights of sexual minorities are still a sensitive issue in many African countries including Senegal and The Gambia. Homosexuality is often considered as an illness.

Youssou argued that "African countries should decide for themselves whether to legalise homosexuality or not."

On Uganda's harsh anti-homosexuality laws, the award-winning singer, who once served as Minister of Culture and Tourism, said:" Uganda has their own culture and this needs to be respected."

He disclosed his president, Macky Sall once told former US president, Barack Obama that his government would not advocate for the violation or discrimination of the LGBT community in any way, but would not legalise gay marriage to please the West.