12 Sep 2018

A Serowe  native, Mr Bakang Garebatho (23) says he has resolved that being born HIV positive should not deter him from pursuing his dreams. 

An Association of Accounting Technician student at Botswana Accountancy College, Mr Garebatho said coming out of the closet was the best thing he could have ever done. 

He said he had kept his status to himself for fear of being discriminated and stigmatised. 

Mr Garebatho said he could not comprehend that in this era of information technology and improved literacy rate, there were some who stigmatised people living with HIV/AIDS. 

“It hurts so much to be stigmatised by those you thought knew better,” he stated. 

“I found out about my HIV status after my parents died from illnesses associated with HIV/AIDS. 

They passed away when I was very young. I had no hope and defaulted in taking my medication,” stated Mr Garebatho. 

Mr Garebatho said he disclosed his status in May this year adding that before then, he did not care much about anything. 

He said by disclosing his status, he wanted to heal emotionally before sharing his story with the world to inspire others. 

Mr Garebatho said it was not an easy decision to make but felt it was necessary because of the way some treated those living with the virus. 

Following the disclosure, he said he relocated to Gaborone where he found solace in those travelling the same journey he was and was referred to an institution that also assisted him. 

He said he gained strength from associating with people of the same status with a positive outlook in life. 

Accepting his status he said was a big achievement that sculptured him to be a responsible young man with a clear vision and purpose. ENDS