Inspiration and Background

During my training at the University of Cape Town, and later during my professional work at MediClinic in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, I was exposed to a structured and specialist-led radiology practice model. In these South African settings, radiology services were overseen entirely by qualified radiologists. All procedures were authorized, annotated, and interpreted by specialists, ensuring that only necessary and correctly executed examinations were carried out—greatly minimizing risks of misdiagnosis or complications.

In contrast, radiology services in Botswana are often not closely supervised by radiologists. Many practices are operated without consistent specialist input, posing significant risks such as inaccurate diagnoses, unnecessary imaging, and avoidable patient harm. This experience inspired me to introduce a fresh, specialist-led model of radiology care in Botswana.

The Birth of Tswana Radiology

Tswana Radiology was established with a vision of high-quality, community-focused care, delivered with excellence and guided by professional oversight. The name “Tswana Radiology” reflects national identity, community ownership, and pride—it is a brand for and by Batswana. As the first Motswana radiologist, I felt a strong responsibility to pioneer this path and create a platform that not only delivers world-class imaging services but also supports and nurtures future radiologists from Botswana.

Current Services and Technology

We currently offer ultrasonography and general radiography (X-rays):

• Ultrasound: A safe, affordable, and non-invasive imaging technique suitable for all, including children and pregnant women. It provides critical early diagnostic insights.

• General Radiography: Commonly referred to as X-rays, this modality provides quick and effective imaging for a wide range of conditions.

In 2025, we plan to introduce mammography services to enhance breast health screening and diagnosis.

Why Location Matters

Many residents in the northern parts of Gaborone previously had to travel to the city center for basic imaging services. By bringing Tswana Radiology closer to these communities, we’ve significantly improved access and convenience, while ensuring services are delivered under professional supervision.

Setting Up: Challenges and Determination

Starting a radiology practice in Botswana comes with regulatory complexities:

• Before operation, one must obtain a Ministry of Health certificate, which depends on licensing from the Botswana Radiation Protection Inspectorate (BRPI).

• BRPI licensing requires specific structural compliance due to radiation safety standards. We secured and remodeled a space in Acacia Mall to meet these strict guidelines—at considerable expense.

Delays from regulatory bodies extended our pre-operational phase by several months. The X-ray machine alone took 7 months to arrive due to clearance delays and supply chain issues, including shipping delays from Durban caused by inclement weather. We also had to upgrade the electrical infrastructure to meet the power demands of our equipment.

Despite these setbacks, I remained persistent—personally engaging various offices and following up until approvals were secured.

Building Capacity and Raising Awareness

Most of our staff were new to radiology. As part of our internal training, I share up-to-date radiology information and public education resources with the team to ensure they can confidently address questions from patients and healthcare providers alike.

We have embraced community engagement through:

• Active presence on Facebook and Instagram

• An easy-to-navigate website

• Public awareness stalls at our clinic and mall entrance

This outreach helps demystify radiology and brings patients closer to understanding the value of early, accurate diagnosis.

The Future of Tswana Radiology

Tswana Radiology is just getting started. By mid-2025, we aim to expand into mammography, and in the following years, we envision:

• Becoming part of a larger, Batswana-led hospital

• Introducing advanced imaging services such as:

  • Computed Tomography (CT)

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

  • Fluoroscopic and interventional procedures

We aim to provide both in-patient and out-patient radiology services in Gaborone and surrounding areas.

Patient Experience

Our clinic offers:

• A friendly and knowledgeable front desk team who explain procedures clearly and provide refreshments on arrival

• Comfortable, air-conditioned examination rooms

• Clinic gowns for convenience and hygiene

• A relaxing and private environment designed for seamless patient care

Words to Future Radiologists

Becoming a radiologist is a challenging but deeply rewarding journey. It requires:

• Years of sacrifice and study

• Exposure to all facets of medicine—from pediatrics to geriatrics, and acute to chronic conditions

• Dedication and adaptability

I trained in South Africa, and I am happy to guide any aspiring Motswana interested in pursuing this path in any of its universities.

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