10 Apr 2016

The Minister of Health, Ms Dorcus Makgato, has implored the medical fraternity to remember that theirs is a calling and they need to transform Botswana health care systems.

Officially opening a leadership summit in Palapye, the minister  said the medical fraternity’s oath of practice was not like any other as their primary aim was to save lives.

The minister further stated that though many milestones had been reached, that was no call for complacency as challenges remained and there was need to up the game.

“It is common knowledge that we are just emerging from an economic slump, but we ought to commend government for always making our area a priority in terms of funding.

That has made it even easier for us as we knock on doors for funding as we unlike others bring something to the table,” noted Ms Makgato.

The minister said creativity and innovation should be across the command chain in efforts to transform health care systems.

Minister Makgato noted with sadness that it was proving difficult to retain medical specialists as they sought greener pastures elsewhere.

“It is with the recently launched Economic Stimulus Program that we shall go on a drive to improve conditions such that we can have a competitive edge to lure and retain the much needed talent,” Ms Makgato  added.

Minister Makgato also stated that they had already procured new vehicles to add to the already over stretched and aging fleet.

“It ought be noted that infrastructure remain integral in our everyday operations hence our commitment to continually upgrade.

The Stimulus program has come at an opportune time and we have been afforded funds to enable us to attain our core mandate of maintaining a healthier nation.

Botswana is sparse with inadequate road network especially in remote areas, hence our having procured adapted vehicles that can traverse even the most challenging terrain,” Ms Makgato said.

The minister further said as the nation moves towards a key milestone of 50 years of independence it is important to seek assistance from those who made it all possible in the mould of retirees.

“The success that Botswana has become is largely by the input of our retirees hence they ought to be roped in for skills impartation as well as wisdom”. Ends