o be little doubt of the truth behind this statement. In a country where the government systematically subjects a minority to unabated harassment and actively encourage their discrimination, it would appear that very little consideration is given to basic human rights. The effectiveness of CSOs is being impeded, leaving an already vulnerable group in an even worse position. The role of civil society in stimulating public debate and offering a platform for all citizens has in this context been silenced. The government has rebuked calls from the international community for a policy change and further antagonize the situation by labelling homosexuality a Western disease and “Un-African”, therefore encouraging nationalistic convictions. Ironically the reality of the anti-homosexual laws and intolerant attitudes are more reminiscent of British colonial rule when homosexuality was defined and outlawed within the legal system, than of a free, independent Africa.
While the future for Uganda’s LGBT community is unclear it is of utmost importance that their struggle is not forgotten or goes unheard. It has been suggested that foreign donors should halt aid in protest, however this would then leave the LGBT community in a more vulnerable position. It seems clear that in Uganda as indeed much of Africa, acceptance and the beginnings of equality for the LGBT community can only be brought about with a general acceptance that sexuality is key to what makes us who we are.