Former President Donald Trump made a light-hearted comment during a congressional address regarding Lesotho, suggesting that very few are familiar with the country. While acknowledging U.S. financial aid for HIV/AIDS programs in Lesotho, Trump’s administration has drastically reduced foreign assistance, which has historically affected America’s role in African nations.
During a recent congressional address, former President Donald Trump referenced the landlocked African nation of Lesotho while discussing various U.S. aid initiatives. He mentioned, “Eight million dollars to promote LGBTQI+ in the African nation of Lesotho,” before humorously suggesting, “Which nobody has ever heard of,” prompting laughter from Republican lawmakers and smiles from Vice President JD Vance and Speaker Mike Johnson.
Lesotho faces significant health challenges, namely high rates of HIV/AIDS. The U.S. government has committed over $630 million since 2006 to combat this issue, providing vital medication and social support, particularly for marginalized sexual minorities who experience stigma.
Additionally, the United States signed a $300 million agreement last year with the Millennium Challenge Corporation to enhance health services and agricultural productivity in Lesotho, aimed at fostering governance and democracy.
The Trump administration has drastically cut U.S. foreign assistance, reportedly terminating over 90 percent of these funds, claiming that the money would be better allocated towards domestic tax reductions. The administration, under the influence of South African-born billionaire Elon Musk, has also diminished the operations of the U.S. Agency for International Development.
Historically, President Trump has exhibited minimal interest in African affairs, previously making controversial remarks about immigrants from the continent. The recent remarks regarding Lesotho continue this trend of indifference toward U.S. relations with Africa.
In summary, former President Trump made light of Lesotho during a congressional address, drawing attention to U.S. aid initiatives while exhibiting a lack of awareness about the country’s significant health crises. Despite substantial American support for HIV/AIDS programs and agricultural development, the current administration has curtailed foreign assistance significantly. This reflects a broader pattern of disinterest in African diplomacy during Trump’s tenure.
Original Source: www.citizen.digital
