News

On the 24th of June 2025, the Acting President of the Republic of Botswana, Hon. Ndaba Gaolatlhe, officially received the refurbished and fully equipped Children's Operating Theatre at Princess Marina Hospital. This significant milestone was achieved through a collaborative effort between the Government of Botswana and the University of Botswana (UB), marking a major advancement in paediatric healthcare services within the country. This follows a step by the University of Botswana’s very own Dr Kutlo Motlhobogwa, lecturer in the Faculty of Medicine (Department of Surgery) approaching the philanthropists in the Kids OR (based in the UK) to ameliorate the status-quo.

In good will and response from Dr. Motlhobogwa, the Kids OR undertook the refurbishment and provided equipment for the theatre at no cost to the Government of Botswana. This is a facility that was already in use and has so far assisted twenty paediatric patients in getting the required surgery. The plan is to establish similar facilities in hospitals nationwide, thereby addressing one of the country’s significant challenges which is the lack of infrastructure and equipment in public hospitals. This would as well as go a long way in the country’s efforts of compliance to the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 3): Good health and Well-being.

Hon. Ndaba Gaolatlhe expressed his gratitude to the gesture revealed, what could be achieved when working together. He stated that, ‘the theatre is a celebration of hope restored, dignity affirmed and many futures reclaimed’.

When handing over, the Assistant Minister of Health, Hon Lawrence Ookeditse indicated that the facility that would enable children to access timely services and a potential to subsequently reduce paediatric mortality rates. He also applauded workers for their commitment to their jobs despite inherent challenges.