21 Nov 2022

You cannot walk without a kneecap. That is why 22 Batswana will forever remain thankful to a group of eight US surgeons, who recently came to Botswana with the sole aim of giving them back their ability to walk. 

The doctors, all under the auspices of Mission for Motion, a global charitable organisation that provides no-cost total knee and hip joint replacement procedures for disadvantaged people, performed the life-enhancing surgeries on the patients, beginning November 14 through 17. 

All the operations were done at Mahalapye District Hospital. Mission accomplished, and 22 very happy beneficiaries, -21 of whom were women - now being able to walk, the doctors were ready to go back home. 

And the government, in gratitude arranged a special fairwell dinner for them. The doctors had not only given the patients back their mobility. 

They had also saved the tax-payer P7.4 million Pula! And all this because the benevolent organisation had chosen to provide the service to Botswana. 

Mission for Motion representatives had approached Botswana’s Ambassador to the US, Mr Kitso Mokaila, and informed him of their plan to visit his country and perform free orthopedic surgeries on disadvantaged people, said integrated health services advisor in the Ministry of Health, Dr Karabo Thokwane, when giving background to the teams’ visit. 

Government, he said, was greatly appreciative of the assistance, which not only helped its people to get back on their feet, but also saved it millions of Pula. 

The cost of one knee replacement can be anything between P250 000 to P350 000, she said. She said: “Over and above the financial savings, the team also brought along drugs, implants and all supplies needed for the surgeries to be a success. 

The team also provided capacity building through the services and manpower that they brough”. “They have given the beneficiaries dignity. 

For health is not just about feeling well… it is also about functionality and being able to be a fully contributing member of society,” said Dr Thokwane. 

To cap it all, Government and Mission for Motion signed a memorandum of understanding that would ensure smooth implementation of future operations in Botswana by the charity group. 

Dr Thokwane thanked the team of surgeons for their kindness. 

She also applauded the leadership of both Mahalapye District Hospital and District Health Management Team (DHMT) for their role in ensuring the success of the mission. 

For his part, hospital’s acting chief medical officer, Dr Fredrick Mpere explained that the district hospital was the country’s Orthopedic Centre of Excellence, which was why it performed orthopedic surgeries. 

“It is also due to Mahalapye’s geographical positioning, as most road accidents occur on the A1 Road and most victims are admitted here at Mahalapye District Hospital, being the nearest,” he added.

Mission for Motion Botswana liaison officer, Dr Rocky Moncho thanked the Mahalapye District Hospital and DHMT leadership for their hospitality. 

Dr Moncho said Mission for Motion began in 2014, to offer at no cost, total knee, joint and hip replacement surgeries to less privileged people. 

“Orthopedic surgeries are specialised. We are committed to serving and doing the right thing at the right level by providing a wonderful health experience to people. And we are anchored toward being of service to humanity,” he said. 

Mahalapye sub-district council chairperson, Mr Bantlhasetse Merementsi thanked the surgeons for their charitable work. 

He also thanked ambassador Mokaila for facilitating the teams’ visit to Botswana. ends