16 May 2023

There is need for government and health practitioners to dialogue about the contribution of indigenous knowledge to oral health, Minister of Health, Dr Edwin Dikoloti has said.

Speaking at the inaugural Vogue Dental World conference in Gaborone Saturday, he said proven indigenous methods should be part of the future of oral health.

He said without dental professionals explaining the importance of regular fluoride exposure to cavity prevention, many people in communities that had no fluoridated water might not seek additional fluoride supplements such as nursery water for their children.

However, Dr Dikoloti said all was not lost because government had prioritised provision of clean and safe water to all.

He said Vision 2036 and the Reset Agenda emphasised government’s resolve to bring critical services such as dental health, to all people.

He, however, decried the use of tobacco and its products, saying it militated against efforts to keep the nation orally healthy.

To that end he called for intensified public education against tobacco use.

Minister Dikoloti challenged oral health practitioners to regularly reach out to rural communities as their contribution in making the nation orally healthy. ENDS