Botswana’s Ministry of Health has announced that first-line tuberculosis (TB) medicines are now available and have been distributed to health facilities across the country following recent nationwide shortages.
Ministry spokesperson Christopher Nyanga said on Wednesday that the medicines had been secured through collaboration with development partners and neighbouring countries to address the shortfall.
“Another consignment which will stabilize the TB medicines availability in the country is expected by mid-May 2025,” Nyanga added.
The ministry acknowledged the anxiety caused by the shortages in recent weeks and urged individuals who missed their TB treatment to visit their usual health facilities for refills, re-initiation or further guidance.
While the ministry is also aware of shortages in other essential medicines, it noted that alternatives are available for most, including asthma medications.
Nyanga said the ministry is committed to ensuring a continuous and consistent supply of all critical medicines and is taking all necessary measures to prevent future disruptions.
JN/APA