In 2007, a national Situation Analysis on orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) was carried out, for the purpose of describing the well-being status of OVC and guiding services and programming for vulnerable children. Now 10 years later, the situation of OVC in the country has changed significantly. This is due to many factors, including the passing of the Children’s Act of 2009, development and implementation of the National Plan of Action on the Care of Orphans and Vulnerable Children (2010-2016), implementation of a range of other response measures, led by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Department of Social Protection (MLGRD-DSP), and adoption of a treat-all strategy for those with HIV, which has greatly reduced morbidity and mortality due to AIDS.
The Government of Botswana, through the MLGRD-DSP, has conducted a second National Situation Analysis on OVC in Botswana, to provide an updated picture on the current situation of OVC, adolescents, and their caregivers. The overarching aim is to examine the needs and vulnerabilities of OVC, assess the range and relevance of services provided, highlight successes and challenges in serving this population, and identify gaps which need to be addressed.
This executive summary report is a shortened version of the full report that is available by writing to OVCsupport@pactworld.org