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The Botho Community Movement (BCM) has welcomed the announcement by North West Health MEC, Sello Lehari, that Boitekong Clinic will soon operate as a 24-hour facility. The pronouncement was made on 06 March 2025, marking a significant step towards improving healthcare access for residents of Boitekong, who have long struggled with limited clinic hours.
BCM President Ofentse Kombe described the development as a victory for the movement’s ongoing advocacy efforts. “This is a cause that BCM has been championing for years. It was part of the coalition agreement between BCM and the ANC in 2016 and remains a key component of the current agreement signed on 01 March 2024,” Kombe stated.
While applauding the decision, BCM has urged the North West Department of Health to prioritize hiring Boitekong residents when recruiting additional staff for the clinic’s expanded operations. The movement specifically called for the inclusion of community health workers who have been supporting clinic staff for nearly a decade.
“These workers have dedicated themselves to assisting the community and are familiar with the local healthcare challenges. It is only fair that they be given preference in staffing the upgraded facility,” Kombe emphasized.
Residents of Boitekong have long raised concerns about the lack of emergency medical services available during nighttime hours, often having to travel long distances for urgent care. The shift to a 24-hour facility is expected to alleviate these challenges and improve healthcare accessibility for thousands.
The Department of Health has yet to outline a timeline for staff recruitment and operational changes at the clinic. However, BCM remains committed to ensuring that local job opportunities benefit the very community the clinic serves.
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