Botswana Runs Critically Low On Medicines

Southern African nation, Botswana, has ran very low on essential medicines and medical supplies, forcing it to declare a health emergency.

Shortages in medicines and medical supplies have left hospitals and clinics dry.

The development has caused difficulties in providing healthcare for patients battling illnesses ranging from hypertension to cancer and diabetes.

According to the Health Minister of Botswana, the shortages are due to financial challenges.

Botswana President, Dumo Boko, announced that rising procurement costs and inefficient distribution systems have led to losses, waste, and damage.

It would be that earlier this month, Botswana’s health ministry warned of depleting stock and postponed all non-urgent surgeries.

Since then, the finance ministry has approved 250 million pula around $17.35 million dollars in emergency funds for medical supplies.

Botswana’s budget has been under pressure this year, largely due to a prolonged slump in the global diamond market. The country is the world’s top producer of diamonds by value.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump cut health funding to Botswana though it’s unclear if that’s linked to the current crisis.

Source:Africa Publicity