𝙈𝘼𝙎𝙄𝙎𝙄 𝙎𝘼𝙇𝙐𝙏𝙀𝙎 𝙈𝙊𝙂𝘼𝙀 𝘼𝙎 𝘼 𝙑𝙄𝙎𝙄𝙊𝙉𝘼𝙍𝙔 𝙇𝙀𝘼𝘿𝙀𝙍

Former President Mr Festus Mogae has been praised for his direction in the fight against the HIV epidemic when it first hit the country. Mr Mogae was held in high regard as a visionary leader who took bold steps to tackle the HIV pandemic when it threatened to reverse the economic development strides made since independence.

The admirations were made by His Excellency the President Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi yesterday at the Botswana-Baylor Partnership’s 20 years celebratory dinner. President Masisi highlighted that the celebration was a testament of true Public Private Partnership supported by the culture of BOTHO that ensured no one was left behind.

He said the Baylor College of Medicine provided the much-needed expertise in training and mentoring when pediatricians were few locally. He went on to say it also support the Government of Botswana with technical expertise, policy formulation and guided the strategic direction of the care of children as well as providing an avenue for training.

President Masisi highlighted that the partnership has grown in leaps and bounds over the years. The initial engagement was on pediatric HIV, cancer, and blood disorders. The partnership now includes pediatric surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, all cancers, vaccine development, and the recent drug and medical supply logistical support.

As part of the 20 years partnership celebrations, 27 staff members of Botswana-Baylor Children’s Clinical Centre of Excellence were recognised for their selfless service to fellow country men and women. They were awarded long service awards as they had served in the organization diligently for more than 15 years.