Gaborone, Botswana, At the 10th Annual Purple Walk and Commemoration, Chief Walker and keynote speaker, Ms. Rachel Lungile Mothibatsela, Executive Head of Corporate Affairs of a leading diamond producer Debswana Diamond Company, passionately called on stakeholders to rally behind efforts to raise awareness about epilepsy and enhance care for those living with the condition.

Speaking at Purple Day, an event where Botswana joins the international community to commemorate International Epilepsy Day, Ms. Mothibatsela emphasized the importance of increasing global awareness about epilepsy.

Her call to action is part of a broader initiative to foster inclusivity and improve the quality of life for those with epilepsy, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. By raising awareness and advocating for better care, Debswana is contributing to a global effort to reduce health disparities and support vulnerable populations.

Debswana Diamond Company, established in 1969, is a joint venture equally owned by the Government of the Republic of Botswana and De Beers Group.

Ms. Mothibatsela reflected on the Botswana Theme for 2025, "WALKING FOR A PURPOSE, STAND UP FOR EPILEPSY," which aims to encourage and challenge everyone on how they handle people with epilepsy. She called on various stakeholders, including government, private sector, schools, NGOs, the medical sector, and the public, to take a keen interest in understanding and addressing epilepsy. Additionally, she urged Botswana to promote epilepsy awareness and support efforts to foster conversations about the condition. Ms. Mothibatsela suggested workplace interventions to raise awareness and equip employees with the knowledge to support colleagues living with epilepsy.

Debswana employees were among the walkers and attendants at the event, demonstrating their commitment to a noble cause. Ms. Mothibatsela's call to action is a powerful reminder of the importance of community involvement and corporate responsibility in addressing health challenges and fostering a more inclusive society. The efforts to increase epilepsy awareness and support those living with the condition are crucial steps towards achieving a healthier and more equitable world.