The current shortage of medical supplies in healthcare facilities country wide is exposing nurses to abuse from patients. Nurses and Mid-wives are often the first point of contact for patients and they have to bear the anger, frustration and disappointment of the public over circumstances beyond their control.
The revelation was made by Botswana Nurses Union(BONU) President Oreeditse Kelebakgosi during the commemoration of the Botswana Nurses Day in Shakawe village last week. He reiterated that the worsening situation has left many nurses and midwives vulnerable to abuse which includes insults, intimidation and in some cases, threats from members of the community.
Botswana has faced a severe, on going shortage of essential medicine supplies in public health facilities throughout 2025 and 2026. Shortages include chronic illness medications for diabetes, cancer treatment, TB and HIV/Aids.
Kelebakgosi said it was deeply unfair for health professionals who continue to serve with dedication under difficult conditions in the quest to save lives to become targets of frustration caused by systematic failure and challenges.
‘The theme today caters for fair wages, safe working conditions, adequate staffing and commitment to nursing education and training as well as respect for the nursing profession. A nurse must not beg for better conditions of services looking at the delicate role that they play in communities, individuals and national health,’ he said.
He emphasized that when nurses are empowered, lives are saved and the nation stands stronger and healthier. He stated that there is need of provision of resources for delivery of quality health care services.
Among other important issues, Kelebakgosi said one other critical path to empower nurses and midwives lives is the ratification and domestication of the ILO Nursing Personnel Convention, 1977(No.149). He said it is worrisome that Botswana remains among the few nations yet to take this progressive step.
‘The convention sets out clear standards on fair working conditions, adequate staffing, professional development and the protection and dignity of nursing personnel,’
‘By aligning our national laws and policies with this global framework, we would not only safeguard the welfare of our nurses and midwives but also strengthen the quality of care delivered to our people, hence saving lives,’ said Kelebakgosi.
BONU has also implored government to employ and absorb nurses and midwives across Botswana. There are currently 797 nurses and midwives who are unemployed. Kelebakgosi demanded immediate action to address staffing gaps in all government health institutions. He added that the current situation undermines quality health care for every citizen. He further called for government to review the Nursing and Midwifery Acct and its regulations.
‘It has been years since the Nursing and Midwifery Act and its regulations were reviewed, we call for their finalization. Please monitor this institution closely as it faces urgent challenges that require attention,’ said Kelebakgosi.
He also urged government to upgrade some primary hospitals to District hospital status with proper equipment and specialist personnel to save lives, improve access, and ensure timely service delivery.