04 Nov 2025

Elderly  residents of Mmokolodi and Tloaneng received rare access to specialist medical services on Saturday when the Theopathy Elderly Care Association (TECA) in partnership with the 17^th China Medical Team and the Charity Association of the Chinese Community in Botswana held a medical outreach aimed at strengthening village healthcare and easing pressure on Princess Marina Hospital.

The outreach held under the theme: Taking specialists to the villages, strengthening community health and de-clustering Princess Marina Hospital, brought free medical consultations, screenings and health education sessions to more than 100 beneficiaries with a strong emphasis on elderly and vulnerable residents who often struggle to access specialist care due to distance and cost.

Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Mr Nelson Ramaotwana applauded the initiative, describing it as a model of what community-centred partnerships can achieve when guided by compassion.

“Taking specialists to the people ensures that no one is left behind, particularly our elderly who have laid the foundation of the society we enjoy today,” he said.

He also said that this collaboration was proof that when government, civil society and international partners unite, dignity and healing can be brought to those who need it most.

Chinese Ambassador to Botswana Mr Fan Yong highlighted that the outreach came at a significant moment as Botswana and China celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations, rooted in cooperation and mutual respect.

He noted that since 1981 China has deployed 17 groups of medical professionals to Botswana serving in major hospitals and transferring medical skills.

“Our two nations are good friends and good partners. The China Medical Team’s work in communities such as Mmokolodi demonstrates the spirit of friendship and shared purpose,” Ambassador Yong said.

Medical experts delivered sessions on conditions that commonly affect the elderly, including anaemia, cancer risks, and the importance of nutrition and physical activity in preventing chronic illnesses.

Princess Marina Hospital specialist Dr Tshepo Machacha urged community members to adopt healthy lifestyles and adhere to prescribed medication, particularly for chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and HIV.

“AIDS remains the leading cause of death in Princess Marina Hospital, largely due to poor treatment adherence. Prevention is better than cure. We encourage every patient to take their medication consistently,” Dr Machacha cautioned. 

Meanwhile, area MP Mr Kagiso Mmusi appealed to government to deploy at least one full-time medical doctor to serve Mmokolodi and neighbouring Tloaneng, saying the current system forces residents to travel long distances for basic consultations.

He also welcomed the involvement of the Chinese medical team and appealed for more such outreach programmes in rural communities.

The event saw participation from various supporting institutions including Princess Marina Hospital, NAHPA, Mogoditshane–Thamaga District Council, Salvation Army, Duma FM, Radio Botswana, BTV, Serenity Rehabilitation Centre and Seriti Wellness Centre.

TECA reaffirmed its ongoing mission to improve the quality of life of elderly persons across Botswana guided by its motto: To Serve Our Elderly With Love. ENDS