The Vice President and Minister of Finance, Ndaba Gaolathe, yesterday officiated at the handing over of the historic 100th children’s paediatric operating room donated by Kids Operating Room(KidsOR) to Princess Marina Hospital.
Gaolathe emphasised the need for partnerships in health care services, noting that Botswana is still faced with under-5 years old mortality, which remains a significant concern.
“This is testament that if we live and work together, we will achieve more, as pneumonia and diarrhoea remain the leading causes of deaths among children, among others,” said Gaolathe. He added that “however, with the right procedures and space, we are headed for the right direction. This theatre is a living promise, a promise that never again will we let a child die because they had no space, no equipment, or no voice. On behalf of the People’s Republic of Botswana and her government, we are grateful for this opportunity.”
He stressed that Botswana is committed to a health sector that is capable of delivering quality healthcare. Moreover, he said that sound facilities empower doctors and specialists.
“We are entering a new era, an era under President Duma Boko. The government is committed to transforming healthcare and expanding medical training and embracing technologies, and ensuring that no one is left behind,” he said.
The surgical care facility is located at Princess Marina Hospital and was built with intentions to improve local childrens’ surgical care support.
