20 Apr 2026

Government has taken a significant step towards improving healthcare delivery by transferring primary healthcare services to the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs.

Speaking at a Public Healthcare roundtable dialogue in Gaborone on Friday, the Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mr Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, emphasised that the move is aimed at streamlining services and enhancing access to healthcare at community level.

Mr Motshegwa said Government Notice No. 742, effective November 12, 2024, formalised the transfer of primary healthcare services from the Ministry of Health to his ministry, marking a major shift in the governance of healthcare services.

He clarified that the transfer excluded primary hospitals and instead focuses on clinics, public health services, and community-based programmes. The reform is expected to improve the reach and accessibility of healthcare, particularly for vulnerable populations.

He said the transfer of public healthcare services was a deliberate effort to strengthen coordination and collaboration between local authorities, community leaders and the health sector.

Mr Motshegwa added that the move would empower local authorities to better implement community-based health initiatives and foster stronger partnerships with traditional leaders.

He also highlighted the importance of adopting an integrated approach to healthcare delivery, noting that factors such as access to clean water, sanitation, and education play a critical role in improving health outcomes.

He further said primary healthcare is not only about treating illnesses, but also about prevention and promoting overall wellbeing.

The minister further underscored the value of incorporating traditional knowledge and practices in promoting health and wellbeing, saying traditional leaders possess valuable experience in community health initiatives.He said government is committed to working with them to develop more effective and culturally sensitive health interventions.

In her welcome remarks, Acting Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Ms Tshepo Kebakile, said public healthcare services had previously been transferred to the Ministry of Health in 2010, but government now believes local authorities were better positioned to deliver these services.

She said the dialogue was intended to gather input from stakeholders on how best to ensure a smooth and effective transition.

Ms Kebakile added that the meeting brought together a wide range of participants, including community service organisations, faith-based organisations, and other key stakeholders, to ensure an inclusive approach to the reform process. ENDS