Natasha (not her real name) grew up like any other child in Lesotho, in a society where traditional values predominated. From a young age, she felt different, understanding early on that she was a woman born with male genitals.

Her childhood was largely free of bullying and rejection from peers. But later in life, she made the courageous decision to transition, a journey that was anything but smooth. She faced numerous challenges within her family and community.

“I have always been myself. There was never a time I sat anyone down to explain who I was. My journey was not easy because I grew up in rural areas where culture and tradition are deeply entrenched,” she said.

“Issues around sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression are often misunderstood or dismissed. My family struggled to accept me, and I experienced significant stigma and discrimination from both my family and the community, to the point of being disowned.”

Natasha’s activism began after she recognised the high rates of HIV infection among marginalised communities. Today, she is not only a transgender woman, but also a sex worker, HIV activist, and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) advocate.

According to the 2024 Lesotho HIV Projection Response and Modes of Transmission Analysis, key populations remain at “higher risk” of acquiring HIV.

Despite facing prejudice, Natasha’s resolve only strengthened. During National Coming Out Day (NCOD) on October 11, she spoke to the public, raising awareness about the LGBTIQ+ community and their rights.

“NCOD is a day to embrace who we are, live our truth, and let people know where we really stand,” she said.

She also issued a direct message to those who stigmatize LGBTIQ+ people: “It’s time to accept people for their differences. Educate yourself on what you don’t understand. Hating others or trying to limit their happiness doesn’t make you a hero.”

Lesotho has ratified several international and regional human rights instruments that protect LGBTI persons. These include the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which guarantees equality and protection from discrimination; the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), ensuring access to health, work, and education; and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), which indirectly supports gender and sexual rights. Regionally, Lesotho is a party to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which promotes dignity, equality, and freedom from discrimination.

While these international and regional commitments provide a framework for protecting LGBTIQ+ rights, their implementation in Lesotho remains limited. Advocates continue to call for the domestication of these treaties into national law, the review of discriminatory statutes, and stronger public awareness campaigns to promote equality and inclusion.

“Understanding and acceptance are essential for fostering a peaceful and harmonious society, particularly in Lesotho, where traditional beliefs heavily influence attitudes toward gender and sexuality. Embracing our differences helps build stronger communities founded on respect and compassion. When individuals are free to express their true selves without fear of discrimination or stigma, it enhances both their well-being and the wider society. Recognising the value of every person, regardless of identity, is a vital step toward creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive,” she said.

The People’s Matrix has also called for anti-discrimination policies and encouraged dialogue between government, civil society, and affected communities to ensure that LGBTIQ+ persons enjoy the same rights as all citizens.

Recent discussions around the Counter Domestic Violence Act, 2022 have offered renewed hope to the LGBTQ+ community. The Act is a significant milestone for transgender rights, explicitly including them in its protections against violence. Section 3(j) defines domestic violence to include “abuse perpetrated by virtue of the age of a victim, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, race or ethnicity, level of education, or other status of a victim.”

Although Lesotho has yet to enact laws specifically addressing the rights of LGBTIQ+ persons, Natasha emphasises the urgent need for change.

“It’s time to amend existing laws that discriminate against any group, because we are all equal before the law and no one should be left behind. We must also recognise and protect people’s differences. A proactive approach to education about diverse experiences is essential. Compassion and understanding can break down barriers and transform lives. By advocating for laws that protect everyone equally and celebrating the richness of our diversity, we can create a more accepting Lesotho, where love and understanding triumph over prejudice.”

Natasha firmly believes that education is key to breaking the cycle of stigma, and that together, a society where everyone feels safe and valued can be built.

“Supporting LGBTIQ+ rights is ultimately about recognising our shared humanity. Every person deserves dignity, love, and the freedom to be who they truly are.”

• My family struggled to accept me, and I experienced significant stigma and discrimination from both my family and the community, to the point of being disowned.
• Today, she is not only a transgender woman, but also a sex worker, HIV activist, and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) advocate.
• Section 3(j) defines domestic violence to include “abuse perpetrated by virtue of the age of a victim, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, race or ethnicity, level of education, or other status of a victim.

Thoboloko Ntšonyane is a dedicated journalist who has contributed to various publications. He focuses on parliament, climate change, human rights, sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), health, business and court reports. His work inspires change, triggers dialogue and also promote transparency in a society.