Kesego Otumile, a transgender woman from Botswana, encountered discrimination when seeking medical treatment at a village clinic. Despite the decriminalization of gay sex in 2019, LGBTQ+ individuals still face widespread discrimination in the country. Transgender people, in particular, struggle to access public services, leaving them at an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections and HIV.
A 2019 court ruling brought Botswana in line with a few African countries that have legalized same-sex relationships, yet prejudice persists. The LGBTQ+ community contends with inadequate representation in mainstream HIV/AIDS campaigns and encounters bias from healthcare staff. Activists cite a lack of sexual health awareness campaigns addressing their unique needs and an ongoing condom shortage that exacerbates the situation.
Botswana is among the top countries globally affected by HIV and AIDS, with up to 400,000 individuals living with the virus, according to UNAIDS estimates. Discrimination from healthcare staff and a shortage of condoms hinder access to medical assistance. While the Health Ministry emphasizes equal care for all patients regardless of sexual orientation, challenges remain.
Legislative discussions are underway to recognize same-sex relationships and trans identities, building on the 2019 decriminalization of gay sex. The Botswana Council of Churches opposes these proposals, perpetuating anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments. Despite progress in public opinion, persistent homophobic attitudes among healthcare professionals discourage LGBTQ+ individuals from seeking medical care, including HIV testing and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medication.
Dumiso Gatsha, founder of LGBTQ+ rights non-profit Success Capital, stresses the importance of non-discriminatory access to free condoms, HIV tests, and STI screening. Many LGBTQ+ individuals resort to traveling to neighboring South Africa for healthcare due to fears of stigma and ill-treatment. Initiatives like Thabo Kgobothi’s clinic and “safe house” are emerging to address these barriers, offering not only medical services but also counseling and support for the LGBTQ+ community’s overall well-being.