05 Feb 2025

 Botswana will tomorrow join the rest of world in commemoration of World Cancer Day.

The event will  be held in Takatokwane and is expected to be officiated  by the Minister of Sport and Arts, Mr Jacob Kelebeng.

Representatives of National AIDS & Health Promotion Agency, World Health Organisation, and other partner organisations are expected to attend.

Nursing Superintendent-Letlhakeng District, Ms Antoinette Ramatsia, said in an interview that the day’s theme, ‘United by Unique,’ highlighted a people-centred approach to cancer care that considered  individual needs of each person.

During the day of the event, she said they would promote awareness on cancer-related issues. 

She therefore encouraged the community to participate in large numbers.

Throughout the day, she said they would be conducting screenings and tests for various illnesses, including cancer.

Ms Ramatsia acknowledged that cancer had become one of the leading causes of death in Botswana and expressed the Ministry of Health’s commitment to fight the scourge.

She said the ministry had established an oncology ward to provide care for those suffering from cancer.

Ms Ramatsia said cancer accounted for a significant number of home-based care patients.

Also, she said early detection could save numerous lives from cancer, hence why the ministry intensified efforts to raise awareness about the disease through awareness campaigns. ENDS