African Catholic bishops, represented by the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (Secam), have disagreed with Pope Francis' decision to bless homosexual couples.

They state that this goes against the will of God. In a statement, Secam, which is the umbrella body for Catholic bishops in Africa, expressed that the Vatican's endorsement of same-sex blessings is not suitable.

"The constant teaching of the Church describes homosexual acts as 'intrinsically disordered' and contrary to the natural law," it read.

Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, the president of Secam, mentioned that the message had been approved by Pope Francis, and they will maintain their connection with the head of the Catholic Church.

Last month, Pope Francis stated that priests should be allowed to bless same-sex couples, causing varied reactions from the Catholic Church and the LGBT community.

However, the Vatican clarified that such blessings should not be part of regular Church rituals or associated with civil unions or weddings.

The Vatican continues to uphold the belief that marriage is between a man and a woman. Notably, around 64 countries globally criminalize homosexuality, with about half of them located in Africa.