March 2021 — Founding of Botswana Trans Initiative (BTI), Botswana

Founded in March 2021 by co-founder Mogomotsi Nelly Thobega, Botswana Trans Initiative (BTI) began its journey in as a small, grassroots support group for transgender and gender-diverse persons in Botswana. With a deep commitment to human rights and social justice, sought to create a safe and inclusive space for people navigating the challenges of being trans in a largely conservative society. Recognising the urgent need for a more unified and structured approach to addressing the systemic barriers faced by the trans and gender-diverse community, the founders quickly began building a collective movement.

Over time, the support group grew, with more individuals joining in search of solidarity, understanding, and advocacy. This growth underscored the profound need for an organised platform that could not only support trans and gender-diverse persons but also challenge the societal and legal frameworks that perpetuate discrimination and exclusion. In February 2024, this vision came to life when the organisation was officially registered, marking a significant milestone in the journey toward building a safer and more inclusive Botswana for transgender and gender-diverse persons.

Vision

By 2036, a Botswana where trans and gender diverse persons live in dignity and self-determination, with full access to their human rights, services and protected livelihoods.

Mission

To advance equity dignity, recognition and acceptance of trans and gender diverse people in Botswana through social justice advocacy and with an intersectional human rights approach.

Goals

• To advance the human rights of transgender and gender-diverse individuals in Botswana by advocating for their protection and inclusion in all areas of society, raising public awareness, and influencing public policy to eliminate discrimination and fostering dignified livelihoods and ensure equity.
• To achieve comprehensive legal reforms in Botswana that protect and promote the rights of transgender and gender-diverse individuals, including the drafting, passage, and implementation of anti-discrimination laws and policies that ensure equal treatment under the law.
• To build a strong, cohesive, and resilient movement for transgender and gender-diverse rights in Botswana by empowering individuals, fostering leadership, and creating networks that can effectively advocate for change at both the local and national levels.
• To enhance the understanding of transgender and gender-diverse issues in Botswana by conducting and disseminating research, collecting data, and producing knowledge that informs advocacy, policy-making, and public awareness efforts.

Contact

+267 72448933
Email: botswanatransinitiative@gmail.com

Interview with co-founder, Nelly Thobega