Lesotho LGBTQ Organization Dismisses US Funding Claims by President Trump

The People’s Matrix, Lesotho’s main LGBTQ rights group, denied claims made by President Trump about receiving eight million dollars in US funding for LGBTQ initiatives. They assert they have not received such grants, with no awareness of any financial allocations. US aid documentation confirms funding is primarily directed towards health programs, not LGBTQ rights. Citizens expressed confusion and pride in response to Trump’s remarks about their nation.

On Wednesday, the People’s Matrix, the foremost LGBTQ rights organization in Lesotho, refuted claims of receiving eight million dollars in funding from the United States. This assertion was made by US President Donald Trump during his address to Congress, where he mentioned a prior aid initiative aimed at promoting LGBTQI+ rights in Lesotho, describing the country as one that few are familiar with.

Tampose Mothopeng, a spokesperson for People’s Matrix, clarified in a statement to AFP, saying, “We are not receiving grants from the US.” He emphasized that they are unaware of the supposed allocation and further stated, “We do not know who received or is going to receive that money.” Mothopeng indicated that they lack any contracts or financial support nearing that amount of money.

Information on US foreign assistance does not list financial backing for LGBTQ rights in Lesotho, a nation with a population of 2.3 million. Instead, it reveals that in 2024 approximately 120 million dollars has been allocated towards health and population programs, including a significant investment of $43.5 million for combating HIV/AIDS. Lesotho is burdened with a high prevalence of HIV, affecting nearly one in four individuals.

Since 2006, the US has reportedly invested over $630 million into anti-HIV/AIDS initiatives within Lesotho. Following the cessation of US foreign aid, more than 30 non-governmental organizations warned of potential failures in the country’s HIV programs.

Trump’s remarks left many citizens of Lesotho bewildered. Journalist and activist Kananelo Boloetse commented on social media platform X, asking, “Do you know what Kingdom in the Sky is? I guess not, too busy golfing to notice.” He further noted, “Lesotho’s the only country in the world entirely above 1,000 meters 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 publicly denied receiving any funding from the United States as claimed by President Trump. The organization has expressed confusion regarding the alleged financial allocations. Furthermore, the US government’s foreign assistance documentation does not support claims of LGBTQ funding in Lesotho, instead outlining substantial contributions towards health initiatives. The public reaction to Trump’s comments has highlighted national pride among Lesotho’s citizens.

Original Source: newscentral.africa