Botswana is set to take a transformative leap in its healthcare sector through a strategic collaboration with the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation (STBF). The partnership is expected to drive progress toward universal health coverage (UHC), while also strengthening primary healthcare systems and sexual and reproductive health services across the country.
President Duma Boko recently held high-level discussions with a visiting delegation from the Foundation, led by its Vice President, Dr. Senait Fisseha. During the meeting, President Boko highlighted the importance of the collaboration, stating that it reflects Botswana’s commitment to becoming self-sufficient in healthcare delivery and reducing dependency on external support.
“This partnership marks a significant milestone as we continue to build a robust and inclusive healthcare system for all Batswana,” said President Boko. “It will help us finance key health services and develop sustainable policies that ensure quality care reaches every citizen, especially women and children.”
The Government of Botswana intends to channel the funding and expertise from STBF into critical healthcare areas including:
- Expansion of maternal health services, ensuring safe and dignified childbirth for all women, including access to surgical interventions when necessary
- Development of primary health strategies and policies that enhance access to essential care at the community level
- Formulation of a national surgical, obstetric, and gynaecological plan, with a focus on safe deliveries and improved emergency care
- Prevention and treatment of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which continue to rise in prevalence across the country
Dr. Senait Fisseha, a globally respected advocate for reproductive health and gender equity, commended Botswana for its forward-thinking leadership. She particularly praised President Boko’s digital health initiatives, noting that data-driven decision-making is often lacking in many health systems across the continent.
“President Boko’s commitment to healthcare digitisation will position Botswana as a model for health governance in Africa,” said Dr. Fisseha. “Many governments make decisions without reliable data. Botswana’s approach will ensure accountability, transparency, and effective policy implementation.”
The collaboration is expected to introduce not only funding but also technical support, capacity-building initiatives, and global best practices that will elevate Botswana’s healthcare system to new standards.
As Botswana deepens its partnerships with global health leaders, this latest move signals a new era of resilient, equitable, and people-centered healthcare—one that prioritizes women’s health, community wellbeing, and long-term sustainability.
