A pastor with controversial views about homosexuality has been banned from South Africa. Steven Anderson, a US pastor, has been barred from visiting the county because of his offensive remarks about homosexuality and its effect on society.

It is understand that South African officials refused to issue a visa to Anderson, thus denying him access to the country.

Anderson runs the Faithful Word Baptist Church which covers old testament bible teachings and describes homosexuality is an ‘abomination’.

Anderson responded to the ban by issuing a statement on his Facebook page which read, “I feel sorry for people who live in South Africa, but thank God we still have a wide open door in Botswana.”

South Africa has a progressive constitution which has protections in place to support gay rights.