29 Jul 2021

The Ministry of Health and Wellness has purchased 120 ambulances at a cost of approximately  P75 million.

Receiving the fleet in Gaborone yesterday, Assistant Minister of Health and Wellness Mr Sethomo Lelatisitswe said the ambulances came at the right time when the country  was grappling with the deadly coronavirus pandemic.

Transportation being a critical factor in the provision of  comprehensive health services, the  ministry found it necessary  to purchase the vehicles, he explained.

Mr Lelatisitswe said the procurement was also meant to address shortage of transport at health facilities around the country, especially in remote areas where roads were also a challenge.

”As health custodians, we are committed to ensure that all people have access to quality health services as and when they need them. Therefore, this fleet will significantly improve accessibility of health services to all,” he said.

Mr Lelatisitswe urged health authorities to ensure that the ambulances were utilised efficiently and with utmost care.

Saying health challenges faced by the country could only be overcome if all stakeholders worked for the common good, the assistant minister appealed to the private sector, communities and individuals to come on board. 

Mr Michael Grobler of Halfway Toyota Ngami, the fleet’s supplier,  concurred saying the private sector should assist government in the provision of essential services.

He promised that his company would play its part.

“As part of our corporate social responsibility, we have donated 105 000km free service plan for each ambulance,” said Mr Grobler, who is the chief executive officer.

The long wheel base ambulances consist of 46 branded emergency medical services vehicles and 74 unbranded for use by different district management teams and hospitals across the country. Ends