Staff Writer
Botswana’s sustained investment in primary health care is delivering measurable progress in maternal health, President Duma Boko has said, while cautioning that more work is needed to eliminate preventable deaths during childbirth.
Speaking at a high-level Heads of State session on commitments to end maternal mortality in Africa held on the sidelines of the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia recently Boko highlighted Botswana’s strong performance in expanding access to maternal services through primary health care.
President Boko said, approximately 95 percent of births in Botswana now occur in health facilities, while about 97 percent of expectant mothers receive antenatal care coverage.
“These outcomes are directly linked to sustained investment in primary health care,” Boko said, noting that access to skilled health professionals before and during childbirth has significantly improved maternal outcomes.
Despite the gains, Boko stressed that maternal deaths still occur, underscoring the need for stronger health systems.
He stated that the government has prioritised ensuring that women deliver in well-equipped facilities capable of providing superior patient outcomes.
Boko also emphasised that successful antenatal programmes depend on consistent access to skilled personnel, reliable infrastructure, and effective referral system.
While expanding access has been crucial, Boko argued that availability of services alone does not guarantee survival.
He cited data indicating that maternal mortality remains a significant concern, reinforcing the need for continued reforms and targeted interventions.
Meanwhile, global partners signalled continued support for Africa’s maternal health agenda.
Dr. Senait Fisseha, vice-president of the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, announced that the foundation is prepared to provide an additional US$100 million annually to African countries to strengthen maternal health services.
Botswana has already secured substantial backing. In November 2025, the country obtained a five-year grant worth P700 million (about US$50 million) from the foundation to transform maternal and child health services nationwide.
The partnership focuses on: expanding primary health care coverage, reducing maternal and under-five mortality, strengthening reproductive health services and enhancing cancer screening programmes
toward ending preventable maternal deaths.
