> Let's Forward this Post Everywhere ❕ *Trump funding cuts major blow for Zim LGBTIQ+ rights* https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaDkMuTFCCoNC13vvo2V _*©Eragon Online News*_ *_(Follow this channel to read more...)_* *Group Link:* https://chat.whatsapp.com/CDyzvhE1ey5H89lorhyIvn By Pamenus Tuso, The Standard - The recent reduction in US government funding for LGBTIQ+ programmes has dealt a major blow to public health and human rights services in Zimbabwe, leaving vulnerable communities exposed to increased health risks and social exclusion, according to local advocacy groups and health practitioners. For years, US funding supported a broad spectrum of critical services for LGBTIQ+ individuals, including hIV prevention and treatment, mental health support, and rights-based advocacy. But these hard-won gains are now under serious threat. In an interview with StandardPeople, Mojalifa Ndlovu, national chairperson of the Zimbabwe Key Populations Forum, described the situation as “devastating” for the country’s marginalised communities. “We are seeing a reversal of the progress we have made over the years in improving access to health services for key populations,” Ndlovu said. “With the withdrawal of US support, programmes that once prioritised LGBTIQ+ individuals are now being scaled back or entirely shut down.” One such example is Population Solutions for health, whose New Start Centre network of clinics previously prioritised key populations including transgender individuals and commercial sex workers for hIV testing, counselling, and treatment. Following the termination of US aid, these services have left many without urgently needed care. Among the most severely affected are hIV prevention and treatment programmes, mental health services and advocacy and legal reform efforts aimed at advancing LGBTIQ+ rights. Ndlovu warned that these cuts were increasing the vulnerability of already at-risk groups. “Without these services, our community members face increased discrimination, isolation, and health risks. This is not just a funding issue but it is a humanitarian crisis,” he stressed. In a desperate bid to survive, affected organisations are now seeking alternative funding sources, including private sector donors, european governments, UN agencies, and grassroots fundraising efforts. “however, Ndlovu pointed out that such measures are unsustainable without long-term support,” he said. “We need more than just temporary aid. We need strategic partnerships and consistent funding to ensure the resilience of LGBTIQ+ programming.” As Zimbabwe and neighbouring Sadc countries grapple with the ripple effects of the aid cuts amid complex socio-political dynamics, there is growing concern that reversing support for key populations could erode years of public health progress and deepen existing inequalities. “If we truly care about health equity and human rights, we cannot afford to leave the LGBTIQ+ community behind,” Ndlovu said. Sam Ndlovu (pictured), executive director of Trans Research education Advocacy and Training echoed similar sentiments but also urged African nations to begin crafting sustainable, locally driven responses to LGBTIQ+ challenges. “What a time we live in today, where the Western world’s understanding of championing people’s rights has come under question and a stronger individualistic stance is taking root,” Ndlovu said. “A strong message is being sent to the rest of the world that each nation must rely on its own homegrown solutions.” Sam emphasised the strength of African values rooted in community solidarity and mutual support. “I am prouder than ever to be an African, knowing full well that our society is built on the belief that umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu (a person is a person through others),” he said. “Our survival and prosperity as a community are guaranteed by the strength of the whole.” however, he also expressed concern about growing hostility toward queer communities, warning that oppressive colonial ideologies are being replaced by newer, subtler forms of marginalization cloaked in cultural rhetoric. “A sense of fear creeps in. Never before has there been such intense obsession with the queer community,” Sam added. “The colonial devil of division and hatred is being replaced with a deceiving rhetoric of ‘values’, values that Africa has always articulated well and which cannot be better taught from outside. Unity and resilience have always been part of our DNA.” As the funding landscape shifts and uncertainty looms, activists are urging both local and international stakeholders not only to restore vital support but also to reinforce the values of equity, dignity, and justice for all. The Standard