27 Feb 2017

The Assistant Minister of Health and Wellness says failure by some Batswana to follow instructions by health personnel continues to frustrate government’s effort to render best medicinal care to its people.

Mr Dikgang Makgalemele said during a kgotla meeting in Ranaka on February 22 the duty to provide good health lies with government as much as it does with citizens.

“I am here to plead with you to help us in this regard as the tendency to default also has cost implications and stretches ministry budget,” he said.

Shoshong lawmaker said the onus is upon every Motswana to ensure great investment and strides made in the fight against HIV/AIDS is not thrown out `the window.

The assistant minister was particularly concerned that men were lagging behind in as far as testing for various diseases was concerned.

He pleaded with dikgosi to use their influence and social standing in the fight against all forms of diseases.

According to Mr Makgalemele, dikgosi could employ the services of regiments and lead the campaign against diseases.

Meanwhile, Mr Makgalemele expressed disappointment at soaring alcohol and tobacco levy that that is on the rise every year.

“A total levy of P144 million and P15 million for both alcohol and tobacco was recorded between October and December last year,” he said, noting that the figures are way too big for a small population of Botswana.

For his part, Dr Malebogo Rauwe of Moshupa District Health Management Team promised residents of Ranaka that a resident doctor will come to their village in May this year.

Dr Rauwe hastened to tell residents that there will not be provision for a call room due to budgetary constraints.

Mr Kenalemongwe Mopipi, Ranaka resident agreed with Minister Makgalemele that individuals should take the responsibility of their health.

Batswana he said should steer clear from social ills like alcohol and tobacco before it is too late. ENDS