Botswana News

WHO visits HIV testing centre lab: A step into cutting-edge technology

There is nothing as intriguing as getting firsthand information and experiencing the inner workings of a vital facility. Recently, I had the opportunity to tour the state-of-the-art HIV Testing Centre Lab, and I was truly impressed by what I saw. The lab’s advanced infrastructure and equipment are far beyond what I had imagined, offering a clear glimpse into the future of HIV drug resistance testing.

WHO works with USAID and UNICEF to build Risk Communication & Community Engagement c...

A total of 92 Health Promotion professionals from 27 districts and MoH headquarters have been trained on emergencies preparedness and response. The training was a result of findings from support visits to 12 districts to assess Risk Communication & Community Engagement (RCCE) capacity and experiences during and after COVID-19. The training focused on preparedness, response and resilience particularly building the capacity of the community to anticipate, respond and build resilience for future shocks.

Enhanced safe systems approach reduces road casualties in Botswana

Botswana has been losing 400 people on average annually due to road crashes.  However, the trend has been going down since the enhancement and improved implementation of the safe systems approach in the last 3 years.  New roadworks now incorporates improved pedestrian walkways and cycling lanes to improve safety and promote active mobility. The enhancements enable people to walk or run safely away from traffic, which also contributes to prevention of obesity and Non-Communicable Diseases.

Partnerships and resource mobilization

In early October, Ambassador John Nkengasong, US Global AIDS Coordinator, led the Global Health Security and Diplomacy team to Botswana. They met with development partners, including WHO, and held discussions with government and health partners to:
•    Review PEPFAR’s successes, challenges, and sustainability efforts.
•    Assess development partners’ strategies to close HIV gaps and promote integration.

Strengthening Leprosy Elimination Efforts in Ngami and Okavango Districts

Botswana has made remarkable strides in leprosy elimination, with zero new child cases reported for consecutive years. However, continued efforts are essential to maintain this success and address sporadic cases. The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MOH), recently intensified post-elimination efforts in Ngami and Okavango districts.

Botswana Commemorates World AIDS Day with Renewed Commitment to Fight HIV/AIDS

Botswana joined the global community in commemorating World AIDS Day on December 1, 2024, in Tlokweng village, with His Honour the Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe lauding the country’s achievements in surpassing the UNAIDS 95-95-95 fast-track targets. Botswana is recognized as a beacon of hope in the fight against HIV/AIDS, with 95% of individuals aged 15–65 living with HIV knowing their status, 98% of those diagnosed on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), and 98% achieving viral suppression (95-98-98).

Health Experts gather in Palapye to finalize the National Malaria Strategic Plan

Botswana has ramped up its commitment to malaria elimination, convening a critical workshop in Palapye from December 16–20, 2024, to finalize the National Malaria Strategic Plan (NMSP) for 2025–2029. Supported by WHO Botswana, the five-day workshop brought together health experts, policymakers, and key stakeholders to develop a roadmap for achieving malaria-free status by 2029. Dr.

WHO Botswana Hosts 16 Days of Activism Campaign

In honor of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence-GBV, the WHO Botswana Country Office hosted a campaign featuring a video screening and discussion on GBV. A survivor shared a powerful story, highlighting key takeaways and exploring how WHO can contribute to ending GBV. Additionally, a pledge wall was set up for staff to write and share their commitments to addressing this issue.