The Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Honourable Ketlhalefile F.C. Motshegwa, emphasized that the Ministry’s mandate includes developing and overseeing policies and legislation aimed at strengthening local government and traditional institutions to fulfill their statutory responsibilities.
Speaking during a courtesy call from the World Health Organization (WHO), which aimed to explore potential partnerships within the Ministry’s healthcare sector, Minister Motshegwa stressed the organization’s commitment to seizing opportunities for improvement, particularly in addressing challenges related to inadequate infrastructure. The Minister pointed out the need for mobile clinics in newly established villages and remote areas to ensure that residents have access to essential health services. He also advocated for enhanced technological support and assured the delegation of ongoing engagement toward a mutually beneficial goal.
Dr. Fabian Ndenzako, the WHO Representative to Botswana and SADC, expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with the Ministry, especially given the ongoing transition of Primary Health Care services to the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs.
The District Health Systems Officer, Ms. Boingotlo Ramontshonyana, pointed out that assessments conducted by the WHO indicate that Botswana has made significant progress in healthcare coverage, achieving 54% compared to other nations with similar income levels. She affirmed the organization’s readiness to partner with the Ministry, highlighting their extensive expertise in strengthening the Primary Healthcare sector through strategic planning and integrating primary health services within local government frameworks.
She mentioned that the WHO is well-positioned to facilitate improvements in universal health coverage. The organization conducts assessments of district functionality to evaluate the local capacities necessary for the effective implementation of the healthcare system. Their focus remains on universal health coverage, health security, and enhancing capacities at the district level, as well as the primary healthcare approach.
