06 Apr 2014

The Ministry of Health considers the Botswana Retired Nurses Society (BORNUS) as a strategic partner in the achievement of health goals and direct delivery of healthcare in the country.

Speaking at the launch of the Francistown BORNUS branch on Friday April 4, the Minister of Health, Dr John Seakgosing said the society has the potential to change health and social problems at community and facility levels.

 “It is my conviction that there are some retired nurses who were extremely excellent in patient care, some even possess some clinical specialties that are rare to find in the clinical areas,” said Dr Seakgosing.

He commended BORNUS for committing themselves not to be selfish with their brains, skills and expertise. The minister said it was upon older nurses with experience to uplift the profession of nursing to the required standard.

“I am convinced beyond reasonable doubt that though the standard of nursing education has improved over the years, the nursing professional values and conduct leave a lot to be desired and the beginner nurses often display conduct that can benefit from coaching and direction of experienced professionals,” he said.

The minister called on members of BORNUS to make a commitment to live up to the ideals of Vision 2016 by ensuring health for all. The branch chairperson, Ms Boremo Mpinyane said the dinner was aimed at raising funds that would assist in caring for the elderly people, and the chronically ill.

She said it was her society’s aim to help the ministry in the care and support for HIV/AIDS prevention and care, Tuberculosis and Home Based Care amongst others.
Francistown mayor, Mr James Kgalajwe implored BORNUS to use their skills in rehabilitating street children, establish old age homes and run orphanages in Francistown.

The theme of the dinner was: Health of the nation is a development of the nation. Ends