BONU unimpressed with Masisi’s SONA
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Tuesday November 14, 2023 09:20
He noted that the lack of modern equipment is one of the biggest challenges facing the health sector and that this makes it difficult for the sector to progress. “The health sector is constantly evolving, and countries like Botswana must keep up with the latest advancements in medical technology in order to provide the best possible care for their citizens. We had hoped that President Mokgweetsi Masisi would discuss the acquisition of advanced medical equipment, such as robotic systems for cancer treatment, which are being used in other countries,” Baleseng said. He said they had expected the President to talk about how government would address the issue of lack of adequate housing for health workers since it leads to burnout and job dissatisfaction, which can negatively impact service delivery. He said the President could have informed the nation if the government is willing to introduce a dispute resolution mechanism so that nurses and employers issues do not end up in court.
The BONU president said the President failed to address the issue of staff shortages in his speech. “While the government has been building new health infrastructure, there is still a shortage of well-trained personnel to work in the existing facilities. As BONU this is a major concern,” he said. Moreover, Baleseng said the President’s speech did not address the issue of safety for nurses at work, such as the cases of rape and assault that they encounter at their workplaces. The BONU president said it would have been helpful if the President had outlined the steps the government is taking to address these issues.
In his address, Masisi said the challenges, however, still exist with sourcing certain classes of medicines, particularly cancer drugs and eye care products, which remain lower than 50%. “We have decided to procure these drugs through bilateral arrangements with our global friends and development partners. The situation of drug shortage is exacerbated by the pervasive incidents of misappropriation within the health sector by certain individuals in complicity with organised criminals. It is heart-wrenching that some of these stolen medicines are illegally exported to criminals outside the country to the detriment of the lives of fellow citizens. This is unacceptable and unbecoming,” Masisi said.
The President said the government has prioritised access to healthcare through a revitalised primary healthcare system as a strategy to improve health outcomes.