David Bahati, Uganda’s Minister of State for Industry, has responded resolutely to the United States’ decision to disengage Uganda from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) market.
In a candid interview with parliamentary journalists, Bahati underscored Uganda’s unwavering commitment to upholding cultural and moral values, particularly regarding the issue of homosexuality.
“We won’t sacrifice our culture and values on the altar of homosexuality,” stated Minister Bahati, addressing the decision by the United States to revoke Uganda’s participation in AGOA. He emphasized that Uganda’s stance on homosexuality was rooted in the defense of traditional family structures, aligning with biblical and cultural beliefs that marriage is exclusively between a man and a woman.
While acknowledging the significance of the American market, Bahati affirmed Uganda’s choice to prioritize combating homosexuality over economic ties. He expressed confidence in alternative markets, emphasizing the need to enhance product standards to cater to Europe, Asia, and the African market.
“We choose to fight homosexuality,” asserted Minister Bahati, reaffirming Uganda’s stance and its readiness to seek alternative trade avenues rather than compromise its principles. He extended prayers for a shift in American attitudes toward homosexuality while affirming the commitment of Uganda’s NRM Government to uphold human rights within the country and across the continent.
Despite regretting the American decision, Bahati reiterated Uganda’s unwavering position against same-sex marriage. He emphasized Uganda’s dedication to capacity-building for import substitution and expressed hope that America would reconsider its stance in due course.
“We will continue to defend human rights,” Bahati affirmed, highlighting the NRM Government’s commitment to justice and the legal punishment of human rights violations. He underscored Uganda’s resilience, expressing skepticism about the dire predictions associated with the disengagement from AGOA.
As February approaches, Bahati remains steadfast, believing in Uganda’s capacity to navigate economic shifts while unwaveringly standing by its principles against the backdrop of the AGOA disengagement.
