The World Bank has lifted a two-year freeze on new funding to Uganda, reversing a suspension it imposed in 2023 following the enactment of the country’s controversial Anti-Homosexuality Act.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the World Bank said it had worked closely with the Ugandan government and other stakeholders to introduce and test new anti-discrimination safeguards to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals are not harmed by the projects it finances.

“The World Bank cannot deliver on its mission to end poverty and boost shared prosperity on a liveable planet unless all people can participate in, and benefit from, the projects we finance,” a World Bank spokesperson told AFP.

World Bank confirmed that new projects in social protection, education, and support for displaced populations have now been approved for funding.

The 2023 law introduced severe penalties, including the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality” and up to 20 years in prison for those found “promoting” homosexuality.

As Uganda continues to walk a tightrope between its domestic political interests and international funding obligations, questions remain about how the World Bank’s renewed involvement will impact the country’s embattled LGBTQ community.

Additional reporting by BBC.