01 Nov 2020

Botswana has received part of P32 million’s worth of medical equipment from Japan provided through the country’s Economic and Social Development Programme.

Speaking during the hand over ceremony, Minister for Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration, Mr Kabo Morwaeng applauded the Japanese government and community in assisting Botswana during the trying times of COVID-19.

He said the pandemic had revealed the strength of Botswana’s partnership with Japan dating back to the early post-independence era.

Mr Morwaeng said the bilateral partnership between the two countries served as a source of strength for both hence the need to nurture it.

The existing, long-standing partnerships between the two countries which had grown over time, he said, were an example of the positive benefits of being part of a global community.

With a population of over 126.3 million and 1.1 million COVID-19 related mortalities, Minister Morwaeng said the Japanese government’s handling of the pandemic was commendable.

For his part, Japanese ambassador Mr Takeda Kozo said the donation augmented the spirit of solidarity between the two countries.

He said the donation, comprising automated external defibrillator machines as well as infusion and syringe pumps had already arrived while others, including thermographic cameras and mobile x-ray machines were still expected.

The machines would contribute in supporting and strengthening government efforts to improve the health sector as well as help build capacity of the local health system to manage infectious diseases.

Mr Kozo praised Botswana leadership for effectively guiding the nation in the face of COVID-19 challenges and also commended frontline workers for being at the forefront in the fight against the pandemic.

He raised concern at the increasing local transmission cases despite efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus.
Mr Kozo  therefore pleaded with the public to adhere to COVID-19 protocols at all times. ENDS