BOPEU HOSTS COURTESY VISIT BY NAPHA

25 February 2026 | New Entry

This morning, BOPEU hosted a courtesy visit by the management of the National AIDS and Health Promotion Agency (NAPHA), led by Mr. Ontiretse Letlhare, National Coordinator. BOPEU management, including General Secretary Ketlhapeleng Karabo , participated in the engagement, which focused on strengthening collaboration to promote employee health and wellness. The discussions highlighted a shared commitment to encouraging active lifestyles, structured wellness prograMs, and accessible health services for both staff and union members. NAPHA management provided an overview of its mandate, highlighting its key role in coordinating national health responses and addressing both HIV/AIDS and non-communicable diseases. The organisation currently operates across 31 districts. During the visit, the NAPHA team emphasized the importance of members being physically fit not just through body movement, but by actively participating in wellness activities. Collaborative initiatives discussed included screening for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, as well as HIV testing for early detection, with referrals to government health facilities where necessary. NAPHA also proposed establishing a health screening station within BOPEU premises to directly benefit members and encourage a culture of prevention and healthy living. Management noted that donor support has gradually declined as Botswana is classified as an upper middle-income country, highlighting the need for strategic partnerships to sustain health promotion programmes. BOPEU welcomed the opportunity to collaborate and shared its own wellness initiatives, including discounted services through partnerships with Diagnofirm Medical Laboratories and herbal health practitioners, as well as recent health screenings during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Both parties agreed that promoting employee wellness is essential not only for individual health but also for productivity, engagement, and the long-term strength of the Union. The courtesy visit concluded with a mutual commitment to develop joint programmes that encourage members to take their health seriously and actively participate in wellness initiatives.