News Releases

Botswana is charting a bold new course, firmly positioning itself as a digitally empowered, innovation-driven nation. Central to this ambitious shift from commodity-led growth is the transformation of the country's health sector.

This strategic direction was the highlight of the Botswana Technology Summit and Expo (Gaborone, 12-13 August 2025), where national and global leaders underscored the vital link between digital public infrastructure and national prosperity.

Digital Health as a Strategic Imperative

Ouagadougou – "During my first pregnancy three years ago, I had to travel 45 km just to have get an ultrasound. I had to pay for transport, wait for an appointment and sometimes even go to a private clinic and pay 10 000 CFA francs. Between the cost of transport and the time lost, a lot of women gave up," says Kindo, a mother of two. "Now that we can have an ultrasound here in Tiériba, free of charge, and on the same day as the consultation, it's a real relief.”

Antananarivo– A new state-of-the-art laboratory has bolstered Madagascar’s efforts to survey and detect polioviruses and effectively respond to the threat of the disease and protect children from its devastating impacts. 

The laboratory, which is fully accredited by World Health Organization (WHO), was handed over today to the national authorities. Hosted at the Institut Pasteur de Madagascar in the capital, Antananarivo, the laboratory reinforces the country’s position as a regional pillar in rapid poliovirus detection and outbreak response.

Abuja – Health leaders, policymakers and development partners across Africa have renewed commitment to accelerate the implementation of the PEN-Plus strategy to significantly expand access to care for severe noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).