Botswana Declares Health Emergency Over Drug Shortage

President Duma Boko of Botswana declared a national public health emergency on August 25, 2025, following a critical collapse in the country’s medical supply system. Hospitals and clinics across the nation have run out of essential medicines and equipment.

The crisis has disrupted treatment for cancer, HIV, tuberculosis, and diabetes. Elective surgeries are suspended, and rural clinics face severe shortages. The government has launched an emergency response to stabilise the situation.

P250 Million Emergency Fund Launched as Military Takes Over Distribution

President Boko announced the release of P250 million to fast-track medical procurement. The Finance Ministry approved the funds to address the urgent shortage and restore minimum health services within days.

The Botswana Defence Force has taken control of nationwide distribution. Military teams are prioritising clinics in rural and high-risk areas. Trucks began moving supplies out of Gaborone on the evening of August 25.

Health officials say military-led delivery ensures speed, oversight, and security. Remote clinics in Maun, Francistown, and Gantsi are among the first locations receiving critical supplies.

Diamond Slump and U.S. Aid Cuts Blamed for System Collapse

Botswana’s health crisis was triggered by a steep decline in diamond revenues. The global slowdown in diamond demand has slashed national income, affecting government spending on healthcare.

Additionally, U.S. aid to Botswana’s health programs has decreased substantially. These funding cuts have strained public clinics and delayed essential purchases of drugs and medical tools.

President Boko blamed the country’s central medical stores for operational failure. “The medical supply chain has failed and disrupted health services nationwide,” he said during a national address on August 25.

Poor procurement practices, inflated prices, and weak stock tracking made the problem worse. Audits revealed years of mismanagement in the national supply system.