Batswana gays commemorate aids day

By Skipper Mogapi (BTM Correspondent)

BOTSWANA – December 4, 2007: For the first time, Lesbians, Gays and Bisexuals of Botswana (LeGaBiBo) held a get-together bash reassuring the gay community in that country that they are not alone.

 The bash was held during the World Aids Day on 1 December last week in Tlokweng outside Gaborone.

About 50 people, some from as far as Mathangwane and Lobatse, turned up for this celebration dubbed ‘Shit Happens’.

Referring to ‘Shit Happens’, one member of LeGaBiBo explained; “This is a safe sex  tip for people who enjoy eating out – having one night stands – to always carry protection material, because shit really does happen if they don’t.”

Despite the bad weather, the LGBTI community in Botswana couldn’t afford to miss out as they waited for this day for a long time. Anxiety and excitement were written on their faces as they slipped through the gate one by one clad in grey t-shirts which read “Not alone anymore”.

“Batswana do not recognise us [LGBTI people]. That is why we have LeGaBiBo, [which is] an organisation that understands us. Today we felt that there is a need for us to have a special day to celebrate and be as gay as we wish. This is a big step for LeGaBiBo” said one gay reveler, Lee Anderson.

“Although no one can be arrested for being gay, we still have fear within. Most of us here are in the closet but when we are together like this we seem to be open because… we realise that we are not alone any more”, assured Masego Ditlhokwa who was also there to celebrate.

Lerato Motseoteng, a young lesbian who attended the bash, revealed that lesbian, gay and bisexual people in Botswana are under pressure because mainstream community there is ignorant of gay rights and needs.

She added that Botswana is still yet to address the issue, and that she is happy to be a member of LeGaBiBo of which she will assist many people.

“We cannot hide forever. The government needs to change [the] laws as we cannot be gay and not practice sexual activities. At this time, talking to people about my sexual preference will not make them to change what they feel about homosexuality. That is why we need to confront them – be as visible as possible”, attested Antoine Mandla, a young activist and member of LeGaBiBo

One of Botswana’s pillars for vision in 2016 is to have a tolerant nation. Only nine years left but still the LGBTI community faces discrimination and stigma. LeGaBiBo will continue to protect, promote and advocate for equality for LGBTI community through advocacy and networking. 

“We hope this bash becomes the beginning of a more open attitude towards LGBT community in Botswana and we wish to see more LGBT coming out. Every journey must start with a single step and no matter how small and tentative.” Ookediste Kgosi, a Botswana human rights activist explained.