The K.K Motshidisi Foundation has secured medication for retired Botswana Defence Force (BDF) soldiers from Intake 17 of 1980, as it moves to ease the burden on servicemen living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
The donation, made by politician Mpho Balopi, is expected to assist retirees who rely on regular medication to manage chronic conditions.
Foundation founder Kitso Motshidisi said the initiative was driven by the challenges some of the former soldiers face in accessing medication consistently. Motshidisi said the foundation identified the need among the retired soldiers and approached Balopi for assistance.
“We reached out to Balopi because there was an urgent need among some of our retired soldiers who are struggling to maintain a consistent supply of their medication,” he said.
He said most NCD patients require long-term treatment, making uninterrupted access to medication critical to managing their conditions. Motshidisi said the intervention was part of the foundation’s broader efforts to respond to the needs of vulnerable members of society.
The donation has also highlighted the difficulties faced by elderly people living with chronic illnesses, particularly those who may struggle financially to maintain their treatment.
Balopi commended the foundation for identifying the plight of the retired soldiers and stepping in to assist. He urged the organisation to continue extending its work to communities across Botswana, saying there was a need for more people to support vulnerable members of society.
“People should not wait for others to act when they have the ability to help,” Balopi said. He said supporting those in need should be regarded as a collective responsibility, adding that individuals and organisations should contribute towards initiatives that improve people’s lives.
The foundation said it would continue working with partners and well-wishers to address pressing needs within communities, particularly among people requiring sustained support.