Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ Zimbabwe’s vice president has announced the government’s intention to block a university scholarship program aimed at young LGBTQ individuals, a decision condemned by human rights organizations as perpetuating the country’s homophobic practices.
The scholarship, sponsored by GALZ, a group representing LGBTQ individuals in Zimbabwe, has been offering support since 2018 without incident. However, an online advertisement for the scholarship recently drew a strong rebuke from Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, a devout Catholic and former army commander.
Chiwenga denounced the scholarship as a direct challenge to the government’s authority in a statement Thursday, labeling LGBTQ values as “alien, anti-life, un-African, and un-Christian.” He declared that Zimbabwean schools and universities would not entertain or enroll applicants associated with such values, which he associated with decadent societies lacking moral or cultural affinity with Zimbabwe.The scholarship program, according to GALZ, aims to provide LGBTQ individuals with equal access to higher education, as they often face ostracization from their families and financial challenges. GALZ did not comment on the vice president’s statement.
However, a coalition of human rights groups, including GALZ, expressed alarm, stating that the vice president’s remarks highlight the danger faced by sexual and gender minorities in Zimbabwe.Wilbert Mandinde, a coordinator at the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum, emphasized concerns over the government’s intolerance, particularly given the scholarship’s potential to open doors for young people.
Like many African nations, Zimbabwe criminalizes homosexual activity, punishable by imprisonment, while its constitution also prohibits same-sex marriages. This legal framework reflects broader societal attitudes toward LGBTQ+ rights in the region, where cultural, religious, and traditional beliefs often shape legislation and social norms. Despite global efforts to promote equality and inclusivity, challenges persist in advancing LGBTQ+ rights in Zimbabwe and other African countries. The situation underscores the ongoing struggle for acceptance and the need for dialogue and advocacy to address discrimination and promote the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Chiwenga stated that Zimbabwe’s anti-gay laws make scholarships based on LGBTQ identity illegal and criminal, arguing that they contradict the nation’s Christian values and ethos. This stance underscores the intersection of legal, religious, and cultural perspectives shaping policies regarding LGBTQ rights in Zimbabwe.
