Malawi Gays Get Cash for Activism

An unidentified gay rights group in the Netherlands has given its Malawian counterpart EUR15,000 (or about US$21,000) to increase visibility and activist efforts.

The move comes as a Malawian couple is on trial for public indecency and holding a marriage ceremony on December 26.

"We want to have a powerful movement which will enable us to get settled in the country," said an official with the Malawi Gay Movement. "We want to be recognized just as any other social groups. Currently, it is threatening in the country to come out and say you are gay, just like what happens to our friends."

According to Africa News, the group will also use the money to help the couple with legal fees.

"They are our friends and groundbreakers; they have done us proud and we cannot leave them," an unnamed official from the group said.

The organization is considering lobbying Malawi's government to legalize gay marriage, according to the report. However, Information Minister Leckford Thotho said the government would fight any effort for recognition of gay relationships.