Zimbabwe’s gov’t to block university scholarships for LGBTQ+ people

Zimbabwe’s Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has announced that a state university scholarship sponsored by LGBTQ+ organization GALZ for individuals between 18 and 35 will be blocked due to claims that it goes against the government’s authority. The move has been criticized by human rights organizations as an example of the country’s continued homophobia.

In a statement, Chiwenga expressed his opposition to the scholarship, calling it a challenge to the government’s authority. He also stated that Zimbabwe’s schools and institutions of higher learning will not entertain applicants associated with LGBTQ+ values, which he described as “alien, anti-life, un-African and un-Christian.”

GALZ has previously defended the scholarship as a means of providing equal access to education for LGBTQ+ individuals who often face discrimination and financial barriers. However, its response to Chiwenga’s statement has not been reported.

Human rights groups have expressed concern about the vice president’s statement, citing it as evidence of the dangers faced by sexual and gender minorities in Zimbabwe. They also noted that the country has laws criminalizing homosexual activity, with the potential for imprisonment for same-sex relationships.

Chiwenga’s remarks indicate the government’s intolerance towards LGBTQ+ individuals and its commitment to enforcing anti-gay laws. The country has a history of discrimination against sexual and gender minorities, and influential religious groups have also expressed hostility towards them.

The threat to block the scholarship highlights ongoing anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment in Zimbabwe, despite President Emmerson Mnangagwa being less vocal about the issue. The country has previously taken measures to stop public demonstrations of support for LGBTQ+ individuals, such as canceling a planned visit by a gay South African celebrity in 2021.