Top Kenyan pop star comes out as gay

A member of Kenya's afro-pop band Sauti Sol has come out as gay.

Chimano's public declaration came as he explained the idea behind his new song, Friday Feeling, in which he featured members of the LGBT community.

"No hiding anymore," he told local media.

He said he was now living his truth and would use his music to challenge toxic masculinity, prejudices and hypocrisy.

Chimano has never publicly come out as gay though he has in the past been spotted with male partners.

The public declaration could be a boost to the fight for LGBT rights in Kenya, where gay sex is criminalised and punishable by up to 14 years in prison.

This article originally appeared on BBC News

Photo: Getty Images