The nursing community from across Botswana gathered in Selebi Phikwe today to commemorate Nurses Day under the theme “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies.” The event celebrated the vital contributions of nurses to healthcare systems, communities, and national development, while also highlighting their impact on the global economy.
Held at Sam Sono Stadium, the commemoration drew nurses, healthcare officials, government representatives, and members of the public who came together to honour the dedication and sacrifices of those in the nursing profession.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Presidential Affairs, Honourable Moeti Mohwasa, praised nurses for their indispensable role in the well-being of Batswana. He acknowledged that nurses are a constant presence in people’s lives—from the moment a child is conceived to their first breath—and remain vital throughout every stage of life.
Minister Mohwasa emphasised that the health sector cannot thrive without the hard work and compassion of nurses. He noted that by improving the health of the population, nurses directly contribute to the broader development goals of the country. He further acknowledged the demanding conditions under which nurses operate and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing their needs.
“The government is aware of the challenges nurses face and is committed to engaging with relevant stakeholders to find sustainable ways to improve their working conditions and well-being,” said the Minister. He added that investing in nurses is not only essential for the health sector but also for economic resilience and national productivity.
Nurses Day provided a moment of reflection on the resilience of healthcare workers, especially in the face of global health emergencies and rising demands on health systems. It also served as a platform to call for stronger support mechanisms and policies that protect and empower nurses in Botswana and beyond.
As the celebrations concluded, the message was clear: caring for nurses is caring for the nation. Their future is closely tied to the future of healthcare, and their well-being remains central to achieving sustainable development.
