Botswana declares health emergency as medicine shortages hit hospitals

Botswana has declared a national health emergency after hospitals across the country ran out of essential medicines. The shortage, caused by depleted government coffers and steep cuts in US aid, has left clinics struggling to treat patients with chronic illnesses.

Government moves to stabilize supply

President Duma Boko addressed the nation on Monday, announcing emergency funding of over $18 million (R317 million) to restock hospitals and clinics. He said the military would oversee drug distribution to ensure supplies reach the most affected areas.

“This scenario is not sustainable. We are taking bold steps to ensure that never again will Botswana suffer due to broken systems,” Boko said.

Widening impact on health services

Earlier this month, Botswana’s health ministry warned that the medical system was “severely strained,” with $75 million owed to private health facilities and suppliers. Shortages have affected medicines for hypertension, diabetes, cancer, tuberculosis, asthma, mental health, and sexual health. Elective surgeries have been postponed, leaving patients waiting for critical care.

Economic pressures worsen the crisis

Botswana’s economy, heavily reliant on diamond mining, has been hit by declining gem revenues. Mining accounts for about 80% of the country’s foreign earnings, but lower sales in recent years have left the government cash-strapped. Last month, certain ministerial purchases were suspended due to budget constraints.

Cuts in US aid under President Donald Trump have compounded the problem. The United States previously funded a third of Botswana’s HIV response and provided $12 million through the Global Fund to fight malaria and tuberculosis.

Global response and concerns

UNICEF has called for “urgent action” to address the crisis, noting that malnutrition is worsening, with one in five children underweight in a western district near the Namibian border. The shortage of medicines and delayed surgeries underscores the fragility of Botswana’s health infrastructure and the urgent need for sustainable support.

The country now faces the challenge of restoring medical services while stabilizing its economy and managing the impact of global funding cuts. For many citizens, the emergency highlights the delicate balance between national resources and public health.

{Source: Thesouthafrican}

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