Controversy Erupts as US Embassy Reveals Millions Spent on Zimbabwe’s Gay and Lesbian Community

Controversy Erupts as US Embassy Reveals Millions Spent on Zimbabwe’s Gay and Lesbian Community

The US Embassy in Zimbabwe has stirred controversy after revealing that it invested millions in key communities in the country including the LGBTQI+ community.

Also read: United Methodist Members Protest Against Gays In Harare Following Church’s New Controversial Stance On Same-Sex Marriages

US Embassy’s Controversial Investment Announcement

As part of its Pride Month celebrations, the US Embassy in Zimbabwe disclosed that it has invested US$8 million through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a US government program supporting those affected by HIV/AIDS globally. Pride Month, typically celebrated in June, is dedicated to honouring and commemorating LGBTQI+ pride.

Also read: Battle of Beliefs: Chiwenga Labels Scholarship For Gays and Lesbians a National Threat

US$8 Million Investment in Zimbabwean Communities

In a post on its verified X (formerly Twitter) account, the US Embassy in Zimbabwe announced that it has invested US$8 million in key communities across the country. The embassy emphasized that this investment highlights its commitment to supporting the LGBTQI+ community in Zimbabwe.

“After 40 years of HIV/AIDS, stigma and discrimination remain obstacles to further progress. @PEPFAR’s $8 million investment in key Zimbabwean communities this year underscores our commitment to the LGBTQI+ community in all health programs. #Pride2024,” the US Embassy in Zimbabwe shared.

Also read: Zimbabweans Express Mixed Reactions After Pope Francis Authorizes Blessings For Same-Sex Couples

Controversy Erupts as US Embassy Reveals Millions Spent on Zimbabwe’s Gay and Lesbian Community

The announcement provoked mixed reactions among Zimbabweans on X. While some appreciated the embassy’s efforts in supporting those living with HIV/AIDS, others were critical of the focus on the LGBTQI+ community. Here are some of the reactions:

@MoyoChihota:

Never seen you encourage or post about American investment in Zimbabwe. All you do is promote activism and violence on Zimbabwe and homosexuality. Do your embassies in the Middle East do the same?

@MDziviro:

Go away with your money . We are better than animals . Gays and lesbian are worse dogs that are not human beings

@kudzieKG:

It is a common African custom that when you are in someone’s home,you should abide by the rules of that house.The majority of Zimbabweans are very clear: we do not condone or practice this abhorrent behaviour as a group, nor do we encourage it. respect us, and we also will abide

@DMatarutse:

Thank you US embassy, you hv done so much to help hiv pple in Zimbabwe

@blaz_vemasvingo:

You think Zim is so poor to an extent that you want to dangle $8 million as an HIV/AIDS investment yet promoting your LGB something agenda. Zim has culture, beliefs and values which need to be respected and can’t be bought.

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