President Trump’s derogatory comments about Lesotho during a congressional speech aimed to justify cuts to foreign aid. His address emphasized reducing government spending, referencing various programs he deemed wasteful. While he criticized aid allocations, significant funding for health initiatives continues, and Lesotho has made progress in LGBTQ+ rights, contrary to his claims.
In a recent address to Congress, U.S. President Donald Trump referred to Lesotho dismissively as an “African nation which nobody has ever heard of,” while justifying proposed cuts to foreign aid. His comments provoked laughter from Republican legislators, including Vice-President JD Vance and Speaker Mike Johnson, who were visibly amused during his speech.
Trump’s address, which was his first major speech to Congress since returning to office, spanned 99 minutes. He highlighted his administration’s intent to reduce federal spending, citing what he deemed a “flagrant waste of taxpayer dollars,” as part of a broader strategy to cut back on various programs, including foreign aid.
Despite Trump’s mention of foreign aid for Lesotho, official U.S. government data does not substantiate claims of significant financial support for LGBTQ+ rights in the country. In 2024, the U.S. allocated approximately $120 million to health services in Lesotho, with a substantial focus on combating HIV/AIDS.
Lesotho has experienced relative advancement in LGBTQ+ rights compared to various other African nations, having decriminalized same-sex relationships in 2012. In his address, Trump also referenced a new government department aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing waste, led by billionaire Elon Musk.
As part of his budget cuts, Trump identified numerous programs as unnecessary, including $22 billion aimed at housing for illegal immigrants and $60 million for Afro-Colombian initiatives. His approach to foreign aid aligns with a broader agenda to curb inflation by limiting governmental spending, while the U.S. continues to be a major donor in global foreign aid, particularly to Africa.
In conclusion, President Trump’s remarks regarding Lesotho during his congressional address highlight his administration’s push for reduced foreign aid. Despite mockery surrounding the nation, Lesotho has seen progress in LGBTQ+ rights and substantial aid in health services from the U.S. The proposed budget cuts reflect a larger strategy aimed at diminishing government expenditure amidst rising inflation concerns.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
