“NO GAY IN MY HOUSE”: EXPLORING GAY & BISEXUALLY IDENTIFYING MALE SEX WORKERS IN BOTSWANA

Abstract

Male sex work has been a growing phenomenon in Botswana. Despite a wide range of literature associating entry into sex work with childhood sexual abuse and a lack of familial acceptance of Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual adolescents and young adults, the issue remains un-investigated in Botswana.  This paper presents part of the findings from an exploratory investigation of male sex work in Gaborone and Kasane. In-depth face-to-face interviews were conducted and key findings from five interviews on sections focused on, a) sexual orientation, b) entry into sex work, and, c) family dynamics and influences are discussed. The study reveals that most respondents were sexually abused as children and not accepted/rejected by family when they came out or discovered by family members to be gay or bisexual. Five case studies are presented where respondents openly narrated their victimization experiences. These experiences were also presented as having a role in the decision to enter into sex work, and accounting for several other destructive behaviours such as alcohol and substance abuse. This paper argues that a history of childhood sexual abuse and familial rejections of certain sexual orientations should be considered when planning interventions for male sex workers.  Little is known about childhood experiences of the gay or bisexual youth in Botswana and how such shape their lives, perceptions and attitudes. A study of this kind sheds light into issues affecting the LGBT community and most importantly could educate and influence policy on the protection of vulnerable.