RULE OF LAW VS TRADITION

 

Dingwetsi Association has rejected claims that it only engages in public discourse when national debates around homophobia arise.

The organisation, which focuses on issues related to marriage, family, and social values, says its work spans a broad range of matters impacting families across Botswana.

President of the organisation, Grace Silver, emphasised that their efforts are often overlooked by the media, which tend to focus on controversial issues rather than initiatives that strengthen communities.

“We travel across Botswana discussing a diverse range of family-related issues. Unfortunately, many times, people and news media platforms are not interested in topics that build a nation and only come around for controversial matters,” Silver said.

The Association has formally requested to participate in an ongoing court case involving a same-sex couple seeking the legal right to marry in Botswana.

While the Dingwetsi Association has indicated that it will take part in the proceedings, it has made its stance clear: it opposes same-sex marriages.

Silver explained that, according to Tswana culture, marriage is traditionally between a man and a woman. “We are not comfortable with two people changing the law for more than two million people,” she said.

Silver further clarified that the organisation’s opposition should not be misunderstood as a lack of care for individuals advocating for same-sex marriage.

“The concept itself, however, undermines the traditional family structure,” she said.

The Dingwetsi Association has also been actively engaged in addressing other social issues, including gender-based violence, and Silver called on all stakeholders to collaborate in advancing the well-being of citizens.

Highlighting the importance of preserving Botswana’s cultural identity, Silver noted, “Our job is to build the nation. Botswana does not need to adopt every cultural aspect from other countries, as this can taint our own culture.

We do not believe same-sex marriage aligns with Tswana traditions, so why should it be imposed on Batswana?”

She warned that allowing certain foreign practices could gradually erode the country’s cultural heritage, adding, “If we are not careful, one day our culture will no longer exist.”