Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) persons in Cape Verde are afforded greater protections than those in many other African countries. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity are legal in Cape Verde. Additionally, since 2008, employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation has been banned, making Cape Verde one of the few African countries to have such protections for LGBT people. Nevertheless, Cape Verde does not recognize same-sex unions or marriages, meaning that same-sex couples may still face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Households headed by same-sex couples are still not eligible for the same legal protections available to opposite-sex couples.