The People’s Matrix, Lesotho’s main LGBTQ rights group, denied allegations of receiving an $8 million grant from the U.S., contrary to claims made by former President Trump. They highlighted the absence of documentation regarding such funds. Current data indicates that U.S. aid is primarily directed towards health initiatives, especially HIV/AIDS, in Lesotho. In light of Trump’s remarks, local citizens expressed their pride and discontent over the affront.
On a recent occasion, the People’s Matrix, Lesotho’s leading LGBTQ rights organization, publicly refuted claims of receiving an $8 million grant from the United States, as stated by former President Donald Trump. In his address to Congress, Trump referenced a previous U.S. funding initiative aimed at LGBTQI+ rights in Lesotho, suggesting the country was largely unknown.
Spokesperson Tampose Mothopeng emphasized, “We are not receiving grants from the US.” He further stated, “We have no idea of the allocation of eight million dollars. We do not know who received or is going to receive that money. We do not have such money or a contract that would even reach a quarter of half of that money.”
Additionally, U.S. government foreign assistance disclosures did not include any financial support for LGBTQ rights in Lesotho, which has a population of 2.3 million. Instead, the data indicated a planned expenditure of approximately $120 million in 2024 on health programs, including $43.5 million dedicated to combating HIV/AIDS. Given that Lesotho possesses one of the highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rates globally, with nearly 25% of its population affected, these health initiatives are critical.
The U.S. embassy affirmed a substantial investment of over $630 million in HIV/AIDS programs since 2006. However, following cuts to U.S. foreign aid, over 30 non-governmental organizations alerted that Lesotho’s vital HIV services were at risk of collapse.
The disparaging remarks made by Trump left many citizens of Lesotho befuddled. Journalist and activist Kananelo Boloetse commented on social media, “Do you know what Kingdom in the Sky is? I guess not, too busy golfing to notice. Lesotho’s the only country in the world entirely above 1,000 metres elevation, higher than your approval ratings ever got. We’re here, we’re proud, and we’re not your punchline.”
In conclusion, the People’s Matrix has firmly denied any receipt of the purported $8 million in U.S. funding for LGBTQ rights, calling attention to a lack of documentation or contracts. The U.S. government’s records highlight significant financial commitments toward health initiatives in Lesotho, especially concerning HIV/AIDS. The response from Lesotho’s citizens underscores a deep sense of pride and a call for respect against misrepresentation.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
