Dr. Joel Dipesalema
Chairperson
Dr Dipesalema Joel is the current President of the Union of National African Paediatric Societies and Associations (UNAPSA), Chairman of Botswana Paediatric Association and the current Academic Head of the Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Health at the University of Botswana in Gaborone, Botswana. Dr Dipesalema Joel graduated from the National University of Ireland in the Republic of Ireland with a Bachelor of Medicine (MB), Bachelor of Surgery (BCh), Bachelor of Arts in Obstetrics (BAO), and Bachelor of Medical Science (B Med Sc) in June 2002. He did his specialty training in Paediatrics in the Republic of Ireland, and he is a Member of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (MRCPI). He did sub-specialty training in the Paediatric Endocrinology Training Centre for Africa (PETCA) in Nairobi, Kenya, and graduated with distinction, top of his class in March 2011.
Dr Dipesalema Joel has served as the President of the African Society for Paediatric and Adolescent Endocrinology (ASPAE) from 2018 – 2020. He also served as the Chairman of Diabetes Association of Botswana for 10 years from 2011 – 2021.
Dr Dipesalema Joel has published 108 pieces of research – (book chapters, peer-reviewed journals, conference abstracts, oral and poster presentations). His scholarly work has 1160 citations in Google Scholar and an H index of 9 in Scopus.
As a Leader, Dr Dipesalema Joel believes in a strong team, inspired by the ancient African proverb that “If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go together”.
Dr. Zakir Patel
Vice Chairperson
Dr. Mohamed Zaakir Patel is a specialist paediatrician who he excels in clinical practice, research and teaching undergraduate students. Dr. Patel actively contributes to many spheres of community work. Dr. Patel has been involved with Botswana Paediatric Association since its inception. He has contributed to its growth and worked along side other experts to promote best practices and ensure the highest standards of care for children the country. With his expertise and unwavering commitment, Dr. Patel continues to advance the field and positively impact the lives and well being of children and communities.
Dr. Tshireletso Ramaphane -Makwape
SecretaryDr. Tshireletso Ramaphane-Makwape is a dedicated specialist paediatrician and published researcher currently working in Ngwangabgwe Referral Hospital to deliver quality paediatric care. She is currently the secretary of the BPA and is responsible for keeping all records of the association except for Financial records as well as an up to date membership list.
Dr. Baphaleng Thupiso – Monokwane
Dr. Baphaleng is a paediatrician in private practice who strongly promotes a good life in great health from the roots.
Dr. Alemayehu Gezmu
Dr. Alemayehu M. Gezmu is a consultant paediatricians and senior lecturer at the University of Botswana, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Health. He currently serves as treasurer Botswana Paediatrics association.
Dr. Merrian Brooks
Additional Member
Dr. Brooks is a paediatrician who during her time in Botswana she has performed a multitude of critical tasks, such as working as a pediatrics specialist at Princess Marina Hospital, consulting in adolescent clinics, training and mentoring UB MMed and medical students, and advising on the health needs of adolescents in the policy making arena. Additionally, Dr. Brooks has focused her research and scholarship on the development and evaluation of interventions that seek to reduce anxiety and depression in adolescents living with HIV through counselling and peer support.
Dr. Ludo Molwantwa
Additional MemberDr. Ludo Molwantwa is a paediatrician who has worked in the public sector for over 10 years and is now with a Non- Governmental Organization where she is working with vulnerable children, children with childhood cancers and is involved with teaching and mentoring medical students. She believes in advocacy for children’s rights and wellbeing. She is passionate about child health and involved in some of the Government strategies to help decrease infant and neonatal deaths.
Dr. Aobakwe Siamisang
Additional Member
Dr. Aobakwe B. Siamisang is a specialist paediatrician currently working in the private sector. She is a well-rounded clinician, who is very hard working and knowledgeable. She is also a published researcher. She has worked with the Ministry of health, Botswana in the Child health division. She joined the BPA as an associate member and volunteered in several conferences and workshops organized byt the association. She then graduated to a full additional member in 2022.
Dr. Kagiso
Mochankana
Additional Member
Dr. Kagiso Mochankana is a dedicated paediatrician. Driven by a fervent commitment to alleviate the burden of childhood infections and tackle antibiotic resistance, Dr. Mochankana is currently immersed in advanced studies in paediatric infectious diseases. With an unwavering dedication, he aspires to bring about a substantial transformation in children’s health and well-being, leaving an indelible mark in the field.