23 Mar 2026

As Purple Day, an international campaign celebrated annually to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding epilepsy, approaches on March 26, Young Epilepsy Botswana (YEB) hosted its 11^th annual Purple Walk on Saturday.

Joined by Minister of International Relations, Dr Phenyo Butale and deputy speaker of Parliament, Ms Helen Manyeneng, the YEB movement walked nearly 10km. Starting from The Grand Palm Hotel Casino Convention Resort to Railpark Mall and back, participants braved a rainy morning to show solidarity with those affected and to combat the myths and discrimination surrounding the condition in Botswana.

In his remarks, Dr Butale stated that government recognised the importance of strengthening health systems and supporting initiatives that improved the quality of life for those living with neurological conditions.

Themed: Healthy Minds, Inclusive Nation, Dr Butale noted that Purple Day served as a reminder that building a compassionate nation was a core pillar in ensuring the dignity of all citizens. He commended YEB, health workers and volunteers for their commitment to educating communities.

“In Botswana, it is estimated that between five and 10 per cent of the population in each district may be living with epilepsy. This means thousands of Batswana including children, young people and adults, are affected by this condition. Many are capable of living full and productive lives when they receive proper medical care and understanding,” he said.

For her part, Ms Thato Makgosa shared a moving testimony about her life with epilepsy, discussing the volatility of diagnosis and medication adjustments.

“Sometimes doctors increase or decrease my dosage. Last year, I had fewer seizures, but unfortunately, this January I had a seizure out of nowhere due to a shortage of my medication, which was heartbreaking,” Ms Makgosa explained.

She emphasised the importance of resilience and urged the public to learn seizure first aid to better support those in need.

YEB president, Mr Ishmael Nshakazhogwe described the Purple Walk as a national movement for hope. He noted that while the walk had successfully brought epilepsy into the public conversation and promoted early diagnosis, significant hurdles remained.

“Despite our progress, challenges such as stigma, limited access to specialised care and medication shortages continue to persist,” Mr Nshakazhogwe said.

Sharing the same sentiment, Corporate Social Initiative chairperson at The Grand Palm, Ms Doris Jele, reaffirmed the private sector’s role in fostering acceptance. Ms Jele noted that corporate partnership was essential to creating a society where those living with epilepsy were defined by their talents rather than their condition. BOPA