08 Apr 2024

Botswana joined the global community on April 7 to commemorate World Health Day.

A press release from the Ministry of Health says April 7 has been set aside to observe the day as a reminder for countries to always explore ways and means to improve the quality of health services.

“This day marks the founding of the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1948. Each year the organisation provides an opportunity for countries to debate and sensitise their communities on the identified global subject or theme,” says the press release.

It says the WHO Council on the Economics of Health for All has found that although at least 140 countries recognise health as a human right in their constitutions, only a few have plans on how to finance it.

Therefore, to address the challenges relating to access to health by all peoples of the world, the theme for World Health Day 2024 is: My Health, My right.

The media release says the theme seeks to champion the right of everyone, everywhere to have access to quality health services, education and information as well as safe drinking water, clean air, good nutrition, quality housing and environmental conditions and freedom from discrimination.

Additionally, the theme highlights the fact that the all-encompassing health and well-being of a people, in terms of the enumerated variables, requires sustainable long-term investment or financing, capacity-building and unwavering commitment by governments and various stakeholders, including the civil society, medical aid institutions, trade unions, the private sector, individuals and their communities.

As such, the Ministry urges all health service providers and stakeholders, including ordinary Batswana and residents to continue debating, dialoguing and fostering consensus on ways to effectively achieve universal health coverage in the spirit and pursuit of My Health, My Right.

“In line with Botswana’s mindset change campaign, everyone bears responsibility for contributing to universal health outcomes at the personal and collective levels, particularly by adopting health-affirming habits,” says the media release.

The press release says Botswana prioritises health as a human right and has a dedicated budget through the Ministry of Health to satisfy the right.

“As expressed in the 2023 State of the Nation Address, the efficient delivery of this obligation, beginning with a revitalised primary health-care system, and also making improvements across other levels, will ensure that there is effective health promotion, disease prevention, early diagnosis of the onset of diseases, timely treatment, rehabilitation and compassionate services,” says the press release. ENDS