11 Jan 2022

The President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi has returned to work after spending a fortnight in self-isolation following a positive COVID-19 test, the presidency said in a press release yesterday.

Dr Masisi who is fully vaccinated, tested positive during a routine test two weeks ago, but did not show any symptoms.

He subsequently self-isolated and was being monitored by his medical team. The release says he has now completed his self-isolation and has been medically cleared to resume duty.

“We are pleased to inform the nation that his medical team has assessed his health status and subsequently cleared him because he continues to have no COVID-19 associated symptoms.

Furthermore, there is no evidence of any acute medical complications since he contracted the disease. To this end, His Excellency the President has since resumed duty,” says the release. The presidency also expressed its “profound gratitude” to members of the public who continue to wish Excellency the President well.

“This is a true reflection of a compassionate and caring nation,” says the release.

Meanwhile authorities continue to urge Batswana to observe all COVID-19 protocols that include, social distancing, use of face masks, washing of hands or sanitising, as well as self-isolation when infected, even when not showing any symptoms, to avoid spreading the virus.

A Presidential COVID-19 Task Force Team report released Monday shows that Botswana registered 2 729 COVID-19 cases since January 4.  This bringing the total of confirmed cases  to 234 432. During the same period 22 people died from the disease. This brings the total of deaths to 2 497.Botswana has launched a spirited vaccination campaign and so far vaccinated over 1 million people out of a population of 2.5million.