To: The Government of the Republic of Botswana, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Health, and Members of Parliament

We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Botswana, respectfully urge the Government to reconsider the proposed reintroduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) on private medical services.

Healthcare is a fundamental necessity, not a luxury. It's a HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUE! Some Batswana rely on private healthcare to access timely consultations, diagnostic tests, specialist care, and treatment, particularly when public healthcare facilities are under pressure. We are all aware of the deficiencies of our Pubilc Health System over the past 20 years.

The reintroduction of VAT will increase the cost of these essential services, placing an additional financial burden on individuals and families.

Senior citizens, pensioners, people living with chronic illnesses, persons with disabilities, and low- to middle-income households will be among those most affected. Many older people depend on fixed pensions or limited savings and may be forced to choose between paying for healthcare and meeting other essential living expenses.

We respectfully call on the Government to maintain the VAT exemption on private medical services, protect vulnerable members of society from increased healthcare costs, and engage healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups, and the public before implementing policies that affect access to medical care. 
In Government headed by His Excellency, Advocate Duma Boko, a Human Rights Specialist Lawyer, we hold informed he leads a Human Rights Goverment. What could be a more a basic human right than the right to health? 

We  encourage the Government to explore alternative sources of revenue that do not reduce access to essential healthcare, particularly for the most vulnarable citizens! 

Botswana has long demonstrated its commitment to improving the health and well-being of its people. Preserving affordable healthcare reflects that commitment and supports a healthier, more productive nation. We therefore respectfully appeal to the Government to reverse the proposed reintroduction of VAT on private medical services and ensure that quality healthcare remains accessible and affordable for all.

Signed by concerned citizens and residents of Botswana.