By: The Editor
We are closely monitoring the ongoing battle against LGBTQ communities in Southern and East Africa. The issues surrounding homosexuality and identity are complex in Africa, as the continent has a diverse range of cultural and religious values. However, we firmly believe that nature dictates that we are created male and female for a specific purpose, which is to populate the Earth. This is a stance that is shared by the clergy in Kenya and Zambia, where the church has been pressuring political leaders to criminalize same-sex relationships and marriages.
Recently, the Supreme Court of Kenya ruled in favor of LGBTQ communities, granting them the right to exist and form associations. However, the church strongly opposed this ruling and has since put pressure on the government to crack down on homosexuality in schools. Similarly, in Uganda, the government has enacted harsher punishments for those who practice, promote, or identify as homosexuals.
Zambia, a constitutionally Christian nation, has also taken a strong stance against LGBTQ rights. Just this month, authorities arrested a woman for organizing a peaceful march in support of LGBTQ rights. While homosexuality remains a criminal offense in Zambia, there are concerns that western influences may prevent authorities from cracking down on the LGBTQ community.
We commend the authorities who are resisting LGBTQ rights, while still respecting human dignity. We believe that each country has its own set of values and moral codes that must be respected. Homosexuality is not native to Africa, and it should remain that way. Governments must not fall prey to arguments that suggest morality cannot be regulated. Every country, society, and home has rules that must be followed.
