Dr Karabo Thokwane is a physician and health systems leader from Botswana currently serving as Deputy Council Secretary responsible for Primary Health Care at the Mogoditshane–Thamaga District Council. In this role, she provides executive leadership for the district’s health system, overseeing primary health care services, community health programmes, health workforce management, and partnerships that shape how health services reach communities across the district.
Her work focuses on building a people-centred district health system within the local government framework, strengthening community ownership of health services, and advancing innovative approaches to primary health care delivery.
Under her leadership, the district has been developing what is emerging as The People’s Primary Health Care Model, which emphasises community participation, multi-sectoral partnerships, data-informed decision-making, and a strong culture of public service.
Dr Thokwane previously served as Director of Clinical Services and Advisor on Integrated Health Services at Botswana’s Ministry of Health, where she contributed to national health policy development, quality and safety systems, and service integration across levels of care.
With over 17 years of experience spanning clinical practice, health systems governance, emergency preparedness, and global health diplomacy, she is particularly interested in how culture, power, and community dynamics shape health systems and health outcomes. She also serves as President of Women in Global Health – Botswana, advocating for gender equity and leadership in global health.