The official opening ceremony of Bokamoso Private Hospital took place on the 11th May 2010 in Mmopane. The guest of honour was the President of the Republic of Namibia His Excellency Hifikepunye Pohamba with The President of the Republic of Botswana His Excellency Lt. General Seretse Khama Ian Khama in attendance. Present at the ceremony as well were, members of the Diplomatic Corps, senior government officials and representatives from the private sector. Management Committees and Trustees of Botswana Public Officers’ Medical Aid Scheme, Pula Medical Fund & Bokamoso Private Hospital Trust were also in attendance.
In his keynote address His Excellency Pohamba applauded Botswana for Public Private Partnership in healthcare, which had resulted in Bokamoso Private Hospital. He expressed confidence that Bokamoso Hospital will provide and contribute to the health of the people of Botswana and visitors to the country. He further said that Bokamoso Private Hospital pesented an opportunity to reverse the migration of skilled professionals to developed countries, and repatriate skills to Botswana to provide medical care and to impart the technological knowledge. In conclusion, his Excellency Pohamba blessed the Hospital, its employees and its patients.
Welcoming the dignitaries, the Chairman of the Bokamoso Private Hospital Board Mrs. Batatu Tafa stated that Bokamoso Private Hospital was designed primarily as a referral/ specialist facility. On that basis she emphasized that, referrals to the hospital were expected to come from local doctors, public health facilities around the country, as well from the Southern African Development Community region. The Chairman further expressed her optimism that Hospital would help ease congestion by supporting the public health facilities. She informed the gathering that the Hospital, with its new services, will reduce patient traffic outside the country to South Africa especially. On behalf of the Board and medical aid scheme promoters of the Hospital, the Chairman expressed contentment over the project’s record completion time.
Giving a vote of thanks the Honorable Rev. Dr John Seakgosing, the Minister of Health, stated that private developments that offer services to this country thereby complementing Government’s efforts, were commendable and welcome. He also added that Bokamoso will complement what other health providers have been doing for the country. He also thanked the President of Namibia and his delegation for being a part of the momentous event. He reiterated the government and the Ministry of Health’s commitment and supporting initiatives such as Bokamoso Private Hospital.
His Excellency Pohamba unveiled the Hospital opening commemorative plague, and with his delegation, was taken on guided tour of the facility. Entertainment for the day was provided by the enthralling Dikakapa Traditional Dance Troupe and the captivating Cultural Spears. Botswana Defence Force Brass Band added colour and pomp to the festivities. The Director of Ceremonies was Ogone Gaboutloeloe ---- his eloquence and wit captivated and amused the guests and dignitaries.
Additional reporting by Babitha Manoj.