The World Bank yesterday (Wednesday) announced the suspension of new loans to Uganda because of the country’s adoption of a law that criminalises same-sex conduct.
Recall that the Ugandan government had earlier in the year passed a law against anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender practices in the country.
The law includes life imprisonment and a death sentence as penalties for anyone convicted.
The bank said in a statement that the anti-gay policy is not in line with its (bank’s) core values.
The statement read, “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.
“Immediately after the law was enacted, the World Bank deployed a team to Uganda to review our portfolio in the context of the new legislation.
“That review determined additional measures are necessary to ensure projects are implemented in alignment with our environmental and social standards.
“Our goal is to protect sexual and gender minorities from discrimination and exclusion in the projects we finance. These measures are currently under discussion with the authorities.
“No new public financing to Uganda will be presented to our board of executive directors until the efficacy of the additional measures has been tested.
“Third-party monitoring and grievance redress mechanisms will significantly increase, allowing us to take corrective action as necessary.”
The World Bank Group, however, noted it still maintains a longstanding and productive relationship with Uganda despite the development.
“We remain committed to helping all Ugandans, without exception, escape poverty, access vital services, and improve their lives,” it added.
