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The World Bank has announced that it will stop issuing loans to Uganda over its controversial anti-LGBTQ laws. The lender said that it would halt project financing pending a review of measures it introduced to protect gender minorities against sexual discrimination from the projects.

“Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act fundamentally contradicts the World Bank Group’s values. We believe our vision to eradicate poverty on a livable planet can only succeed if it includes everyone irrespective of race, gender, or sexuality. This law undermines those efforts. Inclusion and non-discrimination sit at the heart of our work around the world. The lender will also increase third-party monitoring and grievance redress mechanisms “allowing us to take corrective action as necessary,” the lender said.

 

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In May, the World Bank Group said that the law was inconsistent with its values and hence concerned about its adoption. President of the World Bank, President Ajay Banga took office in June and has faced pressure to respond to the legislation. Human rights organisations have condemned the anti-LGBTQ law. It imposes capital punishment for what is termed aggravated homosexuality, an offence that attracts 20 years in prison.

In response to the legislation, travel restrictions were imposed by the United States on Ugandan officials and signed by President Yoweri Museveni. The Ugandan president who terms homosexuality as a psychological disorder, rejected the international criticism of the legislation. Museveni terms the legislation necessary to bar the LGBTQ community from trying to recruit more people.

The World Bank Group asserted that it was committed to providing Ugandans with assistance despite their pause on financing. The lender said, “The World Bank Group has a longstanding and productive relationship with Uganda; and we remain committed to helping all Ugandans – without exception – escape poverty, access vital services, and improve their lives,”

READ ALSO: Will Kenya Finally Table The anti-LGBTQ Bill in Parliament? 

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