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Rona Ba Sewelo (We Are Unique)
4th-8th Nov 24
Big Valley Lodge
Established in 1998, LEGABIBO (Lesbians, Gays, and Bisexuals of Botswana) is Botswana’s first LGBTQIA+ organization. It began as a project under the Botswana Network on Ethics, Law, and HIV/AIDS (BONELA) and has since evolved into a leading force in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights in Botswana. LEGABIBO was officially registered in 2016 after years of legal battles, becoming a beacon of hope and a symbol of resilience for the queer community in Botswana.
LEGABIBO has played a pivotal role in advocating for the rights of sexual minorities in Botswana. Some of its key achievements include:
2016 LEGABIBO Registration Case: After being denied registration multiple times by the government, LEGABIBO challenged this in court. In March 2016, the Botswana Court of Appeal ruled in favor of LEGABIBO’s registration, marking a historic victory for freedom of association and LGBTQIA+ rights in Botswana. This milestone legitimized LEGABIBO’s work and empowered the organization to expand its advocacy efforts across the nation.
2019 Decriminalization of Same-Sex Relationships: In a landmark case brought to court by LEGABIBO, the Botswana High Court ruled in June 2019 to decriminalize consensual same-sex relationships, overturning colonial-era laws that criminalized homosexuality. This victory was a monumental step forward in securing the rights and dignity of LGBTQIA+ persons in Botswana and has since inspired similar movements across Africa.
Ongoing Advocacy and Community Support: LEGABIBO continues to provide legal support, health services, and advocacy for the LGBTQIA+ community. It also works with regional and international partners to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and push for policies that promote equality and protect human rights.
The theme for this year’s conference, Rona Ba Sewelo, captures the spirit of LEGABIBO’s work and the journey of the LGBTQIA+ community in Botswana. Pitso Ya LEGABIBO 2024 will bring together activists, human rights defenders, and allies to reflect on the progress made, the challenges ahead, and how we can collectively shape a more inclusive future.
The conference will feature panels, workshops, and keynote addresses from local and international experts, all focused on advancing LGBTQIA+ rights, enhancing community resilience, and continuing the fight for equality.
Join us at Pitso Ya LEGABIBO 2024 as we celebrate our victories, remember our struggles, and chart the path forward for a more just and equal Botswana!