The Botswana government and the Botswana Doctors Union (BDU) have reached an agreement to resolve the dispute over emergency call duties in public hospitals, bringing an end to a prolonged impasse.
In a joint statement on Monday, the government and BDU said the breakthrough was reached on 2 May and followed mediation efforts led by Minister for State President Moeti Mohwasa who urged both sides to engage in negotiations to find a lasting solution.
Under the agreement, the doctors agreed to withdraw the court case challenging emergency call duties.
It was agreed that the challenge would now be referred to negotiations chaired by an independent facilitator.
Talks are expected to begin immediately and conclude expeditiously to ensure a smooth resolution.
As part of the settlement, doctors agreed to resume emergency call duties with immediate effect, ensuring continuity in healthcare services and addressing concerns over staffing shortages in critical situations.
The dispute had sparked tensions between health professionals and the government, with doctors citing concerns over working conditions, compensation and duty allocations related to emergency call shifts.
The resolution is seen as a positive step toward improving relations and ensuring a functional healthcare system.
JN/APA