Lesotho LGBTQ Group Denies Claims of US Funding by Donald Trump
The People’s Matrix, Lesotho’s leading LGBTQ rights group, denied claims of receiving eight million dollars in US funding as stated by Donald Trump. The US aid mentioned pertains to health initiatives, especially focusing on HIV/AIDS. Trump’s comments left citizens confused, prompting local activists to assert their country’s pride and significance.
On Wednesday, the People’s Matrix, Lesotho’s principal LGBTQ rights organization, refuted claims made by former US President Donald Trump regarding an alleged eight million dollar funding from the United States. During his speech to Congress, Trump mentioned an aid initiative that purportedly directed funds to promote LGBTQI+ rights in Lesotho, a nation he described as relatively unknown.
Tampose Mothopeng, spokesperson for the People’s Matrix, emphasized, “We are not receiving grants from the US,” clarifying that they have no knowledge of the alleged eight million dollars or who might be receiving those funds. Furthermore, Mothopeng stated, “We do not have such money or a contract that would even reach a quarter of half of that money.”
The US government’s foreign assistance webpage does not indicate any financial support for LGBTQ rights in Lesotho, a landlocked country with a population of approximately 2.3 million. Instead, it details an expenditure of about 120 million dollars on health and population programs in 2024, which includes $43.5 million allocated for combating HIV/AIDS. Lesotho is grappling with one of the highest HIV prevalence rates globally, wherein nearly one in four individuals is affected.
Since 2006, the United States has committed over $630 million to anti-HIV/AIDS efforts in Lesotho. However, groups have previously warned that the cessation of US foreign aid jeopardizes these critical health programs. The bewilderment among Lesotho’s citizens arose following Trump’s remarks, which prompted a response from journalist and activist Kananelo Boloetse on social media, questioning Trump’s understanding of their nation’s significance.
In summary, the People’s Matrix refuted Donald Trump’s claims regarding US funding for LGBTQ rights in Lesotho, asserting the organization has not received any such grants. The conversation around financial aid highlights significant health issues facing Lesotho, particularly the high HIV/AIDS prevalence. Trump’s remarks have left citizens of Lesotho astonished and seeking recognition of their country’s value.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
