Rainbow Identity Association (RIA) was established in 2008 in response to the unique challenges faced by transgender and intersex communities in Botswana. A significant milestone came in 2010, when RIA achieved formal registration after years of dedicated advocacy and perseverance. Since then, RIA has grown into a trusted voice for transgender and intersex rights — providing a safe and welcoming space where community members and allies can access support, build connections, organise collectively, and advance advocacy efforts. Today, RIA continues to champion equality through advocacy, research, training, community empowerment, and strategic partnerships, working towards a Botswana where transgender and intersex persons are recognised, respected, and able to live with dignity and equal opportunity.
Rainbow Identity Association
A trusted voice, built over 18 years.
Vision
A socially and legally recognised transgender and intersex community in Botswana.
Mission
To advocate for the inclusion of transgender and intersex persons in national policies and legal frameworks.
Three programs. One movement.
Direct support for individuals, and long-term programmes that shift policy and culture. Both are how lasting change gets made.
Collective Power
Our transgender-focused flagship programme advancing legal gender recognition, SRHR, and key population programming through community leadership.
Hands Off Our Genitals
Our intersex-focused programme protecting bodily autonomy and advocating to end non-consensual surgical interventions on intersex infants and children.
Creative Minds
Sport, arts and entrepreneurship as tools for social and economic inclusion — building livelihoods, leadership and visibility.
Botho guides everything we do.
Botho: a culture of humanity, cooperation, mutual respect and empowerment.
Reach out — we're here.
Whether you need support, want to partner with us, or are looking to get involved, our team is ready to talk.
A socially and legally recognised transgender and intersex community in Botswana.
To advocate for the inclusion of transgender and intersex persons in national policies and legal frameworks.
Rainbow Identity Association
Vision & Mission
Stronger through collaboration.
RIA works with local, regional and international partners who support equality, bodily autonomy, dignity and justice.
Building understanding across key institutions.
From community sport days to sensitisation trainings with key institutions, our events build understanding and community — one room at a time.
Want to attend or host a sensitisation?
Get in touch and our team will share dates and details for upcoming events.
