Botswana Trans Initiative

Join us today on Yarona FM from 18:00 to 19:00 as we tune into an important conversation on marriage equality, dignity, and human rights.

Our Programs Manager, Raymond Kolanyane together with Bonolo Selolo from B.O. Selelo Attorneys (Botswana - thinking law) and the Applicant for the Marriage Equality Case will be unpacking key issues around equality before the law, access to civil marriage, and what true inclusion means for all people.

The discussion will reflect on the broader human rights implications of the ongoing marriage equality matter.

Don't miss it!

Advancing Conversations on Legal Gender Recognition

Yesterday, Botswana Trans Initiative convened a Legal Gender Recognition Strategies Review Workshop, bringing together stakeholders and community members to critically reflect on the current landscape of legal gender recognition in Botswana and explore pathways for reform.

The workshop unpacked the existing legal framework governing legal gender recognition, examined key gaps and challenges faced by trans and gender-diverse persons, and explored the distinction between s*x and gender within legal and policy contexts. Participants also reflected on landmark developments while drawing lessons from comparative regional and international best practices.

Importantly, the discussions created space to consider potential legal and policy reforms that could strengthen the recognition, dignity, and rights of trans and gender-diverse people in Botswana.

As conversations around legal gender recognition continue to evolve globally and across Africa, spaces such as these remain critical for building shared understanding, strengthening advocacy, and developing informed, rights-based strategies that respond to the lived realities of our communities.

We extend our appreciation to everyone who contributed their expertise, perspectives, and experiences to what was a thoughtful, engaging, and impactful workshop. Together, we continue working toward a Botswana where all people can be recognised and affirmed in law and in life.

June is Men's Mental Health Awareness Month

This month, we recognize the importance of mental wellbeing for all men, including trans men and gender-diverse people whose experiences are often overlooked in conversations about mental health.

For generations, many have been taught that "men don't cry," "men must be strong," or that asking for help is a sign of weakness. These harmful stereotypes can prevent people from expressing emotions, seeking support, and prioritizing their mental health.

The truth is that strength is not found in silence. Strength is found in reaching out, speaking up, setting boundaries, and seeking help when it is needed.

Trans men and gender-diverse people may face additional challenges, including stigma, discrimination, social exclusion, and barriers to accessing affirming mental healthcare. These realities make conversations about mental health even more important.

This Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, let us challenge harmful stereotypes, create supportive communities, and remind one another that it is okay to not be okay.

💙 Your feelings are valid.
💙 Your mental health matters.
💙 Asking for help is a sign of courage, not weakness.

Marriage Equality Case Update

Today, the joinder application in the Marriage Equality case was heard before the High Court of Botswana. The matter has been postponed and will now be heard on the;

📅 14 July 2026
⏰ 0930hrs
📍 High Court of Botswana, Gaborone

This case represents an important moment in the ongoing conversation about equality, dignity, recognition, and the protection of human rights for all people in Botswana.

While legal processes often take time, each hearing contributes to shaping the future of justice and equal treatment under the law. We remain encouraged by the continued engagement of those advocating for a Botswana where everyone can enjoy their rights, relationships, and freedoms without discrimination.

We encourage community members, allies, and supporters who are able to do so to follow the proceedings and stand in solidarity as this important matter continues before the courts. Because equality, dignity, and human rights matter.

In The Pursuit Of Equality

This Monday, we stand in solidarity as the High Court hears applications to join the Marriage Equality case. Moments like these remind us that the struggle for equality is not abstract but rather it impacts the lives, relationships, dignity, and recognition of real people.

As Botswana continues important conversations on human rights and equal protection under the law, we acknowledge the courage of those who continue to advocate for a society where everyone can live, love, and belong without discrimination.

We encourage community members and allies who are able to attend to show their support and witness this important moment.

📍 Gaborone High Court
📅 Monday, 8 June 2026
⏰ 08:00hrs

SRHR are Human Rights

Everyone has the right to make informed decisions about their body, health, and future.

For trans and gender-diverse people, this includes access to affirming healthcare, accurate information, dignity, privacy, and freedom from discrimination.

What would you like to know about Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)? Share your questions in the comments and help shape our upcoming conversations.

Trans Inclusive Series: What is Gender Identity?

Gender identity is a person's deeply felt understanding and experience of their own gender. It is about how someone knows and understands themselves, regardless of how others may perceive them.

For many people, gender identity is something they rarely have to think about. For others, understanding and expressing their gender can be an important part of living authentically and fully.

Learning about gender identity helps us challenge misconceptions, reduce stigma, and create communities where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Note: Everyone deserves the freedom to define themselves and be recognised for who they are.

🏳️‍🌈 Happy International Pride Month 🏳️‍🌈

This month, we celebrate the beauty, resilience, diversity, and strength of LGBTQ+ communities across Botswana, Africa, and the world. Pride is more than celebration; it is remembrance, resistance, visibility, healing, and the continued fight for dignity, safety, equality, and freedom for all.

For many LGBTQ+ persons, especially trans and gender-diverse communities, Pride is a reminder that our lives, identities, and stories matter, even in spaces where we are still challenged, questioned, or excluded. It is about existing boldly, loving freely, building community, and imagining futures where everyone can live authentically without fear.

As Botswana Trans Initiative, we honour the activists, community leaders, chosen families, and everyday people whose courage continues to create safer and more affirming spaces for future generations.

This Pride Month, may we continue choosing compassion over prejudice, inclusion over exclusion, and humanity over hate.

Happy Pride Month from all of us at BTI.

Botswana Trans Initiative Operational Hours

We are committed to creating accessible, affirming, and community-centered support spaces for trans and gender-diverse communities.

Monday – Thursday | 09:00hrs–16:30hrs
Friday | 09:00hrs–13:00hrs

Location: Plot 100, Independence Avenue, Gaborone

For inquiries, support, partnerships, referrals, or community engagement, feel free to visit or contact us during operational hours.