Advancing public health today requires more than technical expertise, it demands strong, coordinated partnerships. WHO Botswana is leading by example, prioritizing strategic collaborations that align with national priorities and deliver lasting health impact.

Under the leadership of the WHO Representative, Dr Fabian Ndenzako, the office has actively engaged a wide range of stakeholders to cement these partnerships. Over the past months, Dr Ndenzako has undertaken high-level courtesy visits and technical discussions with key ministries such as Health, Finance, and Foreign Affairs, reaffirming WHO’s role as a trusted advisor in Botswana’s health sector.

Partnership-building efforts have extended beyond government ministries. Dr Ndenzako has also met with ambassadors from the United States, Germany, Japan, and the European Union Delegation, strengthening diplomatic ties and advancing shared priorities such as pandemic preparedness, health system strengthening, and digital innovation. In addition, engagements with heads of UN agencies including UNDP, UNICEF, and UNAIDS have reinforced interagency collaboration, paving the way for joint programming and integrated approaches.

WHO Botswana’s approach is both diplomatic and strategic. Beyond courtesy engagements, the office plays an active role in national health planning processes. WHO has supported the development of the new Health Sector Strategic Plan and contributed significantly to the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), positioning itself at the heart of Botswana’s health agenda.

Resource mobilization is a key pillar of this strategy. WHO Botswana maintains strong relationships with traditional partners such as the Global Fund and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation while actively seeking to diversify its support base. Outreach to non-traditional partners, including academic institutions, corporate foundations, and regional organizations, is helping to drive innovation and sustainability in health initiatives.

To ensure accountability and guide continuous improvement, the office tracks key performance indicators (KPIs) related to stakeholder engagement, resource mobilization, visibility, and partner satisfaction. This data-driven approach ensures that every partnership delivers measurable results.

As Botswana continues its journey toward universal health coverage and resilient health systems, WHO Botswana remains committed to expanding strategic partnerships that leave no one behind. Through leadership, trust, and shared vision, WHO and its partners are building a healthier future for all.