Botswana News

Botswana has reinforced its efforts to eradicate polio as part of the global initiative outlined in the 2022-2029 Global Polio Eradication Strategy. At a recent National Certification Committee (NCC) meeting, experts reviewed Botswana’s progress in combating both wild poliovirus (WPV) and circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2). The country has made notable advancements in surveillance and vaccination, with Dr.

In a move to enhance efficiency and streamline operations, WHO Botswana has upgraded its IT infrastructure with the implementation of the Business Management System (BMS). This transition replaces the outdated GSM-based system, which required staff to log in and out of multiple platforms to complete tasks. By centralizing essential services, BMS reduces inefficiencies, creating a seamless and integrated workflow.

There is nothing as intriguing as getting firsthand information and experiencing the inner workings of a vital facility. Recently, I had the opportunity to tour the state-of-the-art HIV Testing Centre Lab, and I was truly impressed by what I saw. The lab’s advanced infrastructure and equipment are far beyond what I had imagined, offering a clear glimpse into the future of HIV drug resistance testing.

A total of 92 Health Promotion professionals from 27 districts and MoH headquarters have been trained on emergencies preparedness and response. The training was a result of findings from support visits to 12 districts to assess Risk Communication & Community Engagement (RCCE) capacity and experiences during and after COVID-19. The training focused on preparedness, response and resilience particularly building the capacity of the community to anticipate, respond and build resilience for future shocks.

Botswana has been losing 400 people on average annually due to road crashes.  However, the trend has been going down since the enhancement and improved implementation of the safe systems approach in the last 3 years.  New roadworks now incorporates improved pedestrian walkways and cycling lanes to improve safety and promote active mobility. The enhancements enable people to walk or run safely away from traffic, which also contributes to prevention of obesity and Non-Communicable Diseases.

In early October, Ambassador John Nkengasong, US Global AIDS Coordinator, led the Global Health Security and Diplomacy team to Botswana. They met with development partners, including WHO, and held discussions with government and health partners to:
•    Review PEPFAR’s successes, challenges, and sustainability efforts.
•    Assess development partners’ strategies to close HIV gaps and promote integration.

The Government of Botswana conducted a Climate Change Health Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment in selected districts to identify high-risk areas and vulnerable populations affected by climate change. The objective was to strengthen the country’s health sector to effectively and efficiently respond to climate-related impacts.

Botswana has made remarkable strides in leprosy elimination, with zero new child cases reported for consecutive years. However, continued efforts are essential to maintain this success and address sporadic cases. The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MOH), recently intensified post-elimination efforts in Ngami and Okavango districts.

The Government of Botswana observed World Antimicrobial Awareness Week 2024 (18–24 November) under the theme, “Educate, Advocate, Act Now”, at the Machaneng Main Kgotla in the Mahalapye District on 22 November 2024.

Botswana joined the global community in commemorating World AIDS Day on December 1, 2024, in Tlokweng village, with His Honour the Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe lauding the country’s achievements in surpassing the UNAIDS 95-95-95 fast-track targets. Botswana is recognized as a beacon of hope in the fight against HIV/AIDS, with 95% of individuals aged 15–65 living with HIV knowing their status, 98% of those diagnosed on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), and 98% achieving viral suppression (95-98-98).