24 Oct 2023

First National Bank Botswana (FNBB) has donated a state-of-the-art playground to the Paediatric Clinic at Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital (SKMTH).

Speaking at the hand over ceremony on October 23, Minister of Health, Dr Edwin Dikoloti said the paediatric play area project, which was a partnership between the hospital and FNBB, was born out of the government’s desire to improve the experience of paediatric patients. 

He said the pan would ease and enhance the treatment and healing process of children.

He said the area was a recreational space where children would find solace, joy and companionship during their medical treatment at the hospital. 

Dr Dikoloti also described the area as a symbol of hope and resilience and that it would brighten the lives of the young patients, their caretakers and families. “Research has shown that a positive and engaging environment can significantly improve the healing process, and the aim is to not only treat the physical ailments of the children, but to also nurture their emotional wellbeing,” he said.

For his part, FNBB chief executive officer, Mr Steven Bogatsu said the FNBB Foundation took the initiative and transformed the simple waiting area into a children’s play centre, and that would be known as the Joni Joni play centre in honour of former president, Sir Ketumile Masire who was renowned for his tireless efforts to promote peace and stability in Africa.

Mr Bogatsu said the centre, constructed at over P600 000, had brought a vision to reality. 

He added that FNBB  recognised that the healing journey of paediatric patients was challenging, and that the environment could play a crucial role in expediting their healing. Ends