The World Bank resumes Uganda funding nearly two years after suspending support due to Uganda’s controversial Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA). This decision marks a significant turning point in development finance across East Africa.
In August 2023, the World Bank halted new loans to Uganda after the government enacted a law that imposed severe penalties on LGBTQ individuals. The law included life imprisonment and even the death penalty for specific same-sex acts. According to the Bank, this legislation directly contradicted its core values of inclusion, non-discrimination, and human dignity.
Since then, Ugandan authorities collaborated with the World Bank to develop and apply safeguards. These measures aimed to prevent harm and promote fairness across ongoing and future projects. After a detailed review, the Bank confirmed that the protections in place met its operational standards.
As a result, the World Bank resumes Uganda funding by approving three major projects. These will focus on social protection, education, and refugee support—all areas with urgent development needs. Collectively, the initiatives are expected to benefit millions of Ugandans.
To begin with, the social protection project will target vulnerable groups such as women, children, persons with disabilities, and refugees. It will offer cash support, job training, and opportunities for local entrepreneurship. Therefore, these investments should enhance community resilience and reduce extreme poverty.
Meanwhile, the education program will train teachers, rebuild school infrastructure, and distribute essential learning materials. In particular, it will address regional disparities in education quality and access. As a result, more children, especially in rural areas, will benefit from improved learning environments.
Furthermore, the refugee support initiative will extend housing, healthcare, and employment to both refugees and host communities. Since Uganda hosts one of the largest refugee populations in Africa, this effort is both timely and necessary.
Although the World Bank decided to resume support, it emphasized that its commitment to human rights remains unchanged. Each funded project will operate under strict non-discrimination guidelines. In addition, independent monitors will conduct audits and reviews to ensure compliance.
This move—where the World Bank resumes Uganda funding—has sparked mixed reactions globally. On one hand, some advocacy groups worry that restarting funding may weaken pressure against anti-LGBT laws. On the other hand, development experts argue that suspending aid harms those who need it most. Ultimately, the Bank chose a path that tries to protect people without abandoning critical development work.
Economically, the decision comes at a crucial moment. Uganda faces high public debt, inflation, and widespread youth unemployment. Therefore, renewed World Bank support may help stabilize key sectors and support long-term growth.
Politically, Uganda’s leadership continues to defend the Anti-Homosexuality Act. However, by agreeing to the Bank’s conditions, the government has shown some willingness to cooperate. This highlights the delicate balance between national sovereignty and global accountability.
In conclusion, the fact that the World Bank resumes Uganda funding represents more than just a financial decision. It reflects a complex effort to uphold global values while meeting urgent local needs. Moving forward, the success of this renewed partnership will depend on transparency, inclusion, and the continuous protection of human rights.
READ: Two Arrested for Aiding LGBTQ+ Escape Under Strict Ugandan Laws
