News and Events

MoH Takes Services to Old Naledi
With the aim of taking the services to the people, MoH recently held the 2nd Open Day in Old Naledi under the theme know your health services, take action. Prevention of Blindness, Alcohol and substance abuse, Sexual reproductive health, Nutrition and Food control, Safe Male Circumcision, Emergency Medical Services among others showcased their services.

The Minister of Health Honourable Rev. Dr. Seakgosing said that the Ministry leadership have over the years evolved, improved and put in place effective measures to arrest persistent public health issues. He added that the healthcare system of Botswana is impressive and accessible to its communities.

“I am proud to mention that we are among the best in the provision of healthcare in Africa if not globally” he added. He lamented that maternal mortality rates have significantly reduced from 315 per live births in 1991 to 145 in 2014 owing to well established maternal mortality audit systems and maternal mortality reduction initiatives such as surveillance, public education, early diagnosis and treatment.

Through strong Safe Male Circumcision initiatives, 26,141 eligible males have been circumcised against a target of 50, 000 males for the 2014/2015 financial year. The Ministry strives to keep pace with changes in epidemiological patterns, such as emerging new trends of diseases, emerging socio-economic and demographic situations. This has challenged the Ministry to strengthen its port health services, disease surveillance and public education. The ministry has therefore put in place measures to keep Ebola at bay, and “we will be ready should need arise” he said.

The roll out of ART for TB patients co-infected with HIV has seen an improvement of TB treatment from 65.2% reported in 2012 to 80% in 2014. With this initiative there has been reduced TB transmission and TB related deaths and improved treatment outcomes as well as survival for TB-HIV co-infected patients. The Government continues to invest in building health facilities in every district. Some facilities are also upgraded to enable them to shoulder emerging health demands.

Members of the public had the opportunity to be tested for diabetes, high blood pressure and to have their body mass taken.

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