WE ARE HERE!

I think we are all past the idea reflected in an ancient Court of Apeal case, that Botswana's society is not ready for decriminalisation of provisions in the Penal Code, that criminalise consensual same sex sexual conduct.

I think we are even over the propaganda that homosexuality in Botswana is not legal. The laws of a country are only a reflection of that country’s society. And as a country who’s highest Court has said, “members of the gay, lesbian and transgender community, though no doubt a small minority and unacceptable to some on religious or other grounds, form part of the rich diversity of any nation and are fully entitled in Botswana, as in any other progressive state, to the constitutional protection of dignity,” I think we understand that in Botswana, whether people like it or not, everyone can choose who they love.

Botswana is a special country because we are either very progressive or extremely fatalistic, even though we can be rather violent. As a result, judgements made in our country have set the tone in various other countries in the region, particularly those pertaining to sexual orientation and gender identity as well as expression. Of course we also know that there is health programming through engagement with various government departments, aimed specifically at the marginalised communities. These are efforts that we celebrate, and continue to thoroughly commend.

Editor's Comment
Congratulations Anicia Gaothuse!

The contest had 10 beautiful young girls as finalists and unfortunately only one could wear the crown.The judges picked Anicia Gaothuse. To all those who feel their contestant should have won ahead of Anicia for whatever reason, hardly; the judges found Anicia to be the best among the best, so desist from disrespecting our newly crowned queen on social media or anywhere else, for that matter! Each of the 10 beautiful young women had supporters...

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