After European countries withdraw millions in aid over anti-gay law, Ugandans react with scorn

KAMPALA, Uganda – Uganda’s government has been hit with substantial aid cuts after the president enacted a severe anti-gay measure.

At least three European countries are withdrawing millions in direct support to Uganda’s government, which depends on donors for about 25 per cent of its budget.

The Netherlands said in statement seen Thursday that it is suspending support to Uganda’s government, joining Norway and Denmark in taking such action. Norway is withdrawing $8 million, but it was not clear how much the others were withholding.

Washington has also signalled it could cut aid to the East African country.

Ugandans officials are reacting with scorn.

Uganda’s president on Wednesday told African leaders attending a summit in Congo that although the matter of gay rights is “dear” to the West, “even the homosexuals need electricity.”