28 Dec 2016

Shoshong MP, Mr Dikgang Makgalemele, shared a Christmas lunch with Shoshong home based patients and village health committee.
Speaking during the event, Mr Makgalemele said the initiative to share lunch with the health family came after the launch of Hospice and Palliative Care policy in Ghantsi in October, whose aim  was to improve care and support to the patients.
“Non communicable diseases are on the increase, therefore regular visits to clinics are advisable as early diagnosis could lead to early treatment,” said Mr Makgalemele, also the Assistant Minister of Health and Wellness.
He also informed Shoshong residents that there was a plan to build a primary hospital in the village during  NDP11- level one plan (2018/19).
The assistant minister also extended his gratitude to Tetai Limited Company, a youth owned company based in Mahalapye, for donating 40 Botswana print t-shirts.
Dr Andre Mushimbi of Tetai Limited Company said they provided medical services to the public including supply of gloves, marking torch and nappies.
Dr Mushimbi also stated that they cared for patients who suffered from stroke, cancer and HIV related infections.
He commended the palliative home based care unit for working tirelessly despite limited resources, encouraging them to continue with the good spirit of volunteerism and community service.
“The home based care plays a vital part to our patients and without them our patients could be suffering as we are also short of staff, so referrals are made according to their needs, be it counselling from a social worker or a specialist.” he added.
Member of the health committee, Ms Gabonamong Tapologo, who has been an active volunteer since 1999 acknowledged and thanked the MP, saying his visit shows the spirit of a compassionate and caring nation.
She decried that the transport allowance of P200 is not enough and asked for an increment to ease their daily visits.
Ms Tapologo also requested for printed t-shirts for the home based care team. Ms Tapologo noted that volunteerism requires a loving, kind, patient and a committed individual, without which attributes one cannot look after patients.ENDS