10/05/2026
DPP STAFF URGED TO PRIORITISE MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Dr. Gotsang Garechaba, a Specialist Psychiatrist at Princess Marina Hospital, has called on the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) staff to prioritize mental health as a core professional requirement. Speaking during a Mother’s Day commemoration in Gaborone, Dr. Garechaba warned that the emotional toll of handling traumatic cases including murder, gender-based violence, and other distressing offences necessitates proactive mental wellbeing to prevent burnout. He emphasized that early intervention and institutional support are essential to safeguarding both the health of legal professionals and the integrity of the justice system.
Highlighting the psychological impact of prosecutorial work, Dr. Garechaba explained that continuous exposure to sensitive material significantly increases the risk of burnout, depression, and emotional exhaustion. He further noted the critical links between chronic depression and health challenges, such as cardiovascular disease and weakened immunity. He cautioned that untreated mental health conditions may lead to reduced productivity, poor decision-making, anxiety, errors, and loopholes, as well as insomnia and serious outcomes including substance abuse and suicidal ideation.
To address these risks, he called for comprehensive reforms such as staff rotation in trauma-heavy cases, adequate staffing levels, the establishment of peer support systems, and structured periods for rest and recovery, while urging staff to utilize psychosocial support services and to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
Dr. Garechaba further noted that studies indicate women generally live longer than men, partly because they are more likely to express emotions and proactively seek support. In contrast, he said that most men frequently internalize stress and bottle up their emotions, a tendency that significantly increases their vulnerability to both mental and physical health complications. He emphasized that workplace culture must therefore evolve to encourage openness and early intervention, ensuring that all staff regardless of gender feel empowered to utilize psychosocial support services as an essential tool for professional and personal balance.
For her part, Clinical Psychologist Ms. Buyisile Mbulawa encouraged staff to identify stress early, manage personal triggers, and seek support before reaching a point of burnout, noting that unmanaged stress can negatively affect both physical health and professional performance. She emphasized that seeking psychological help should be viewed as a professional strength rather than a weakness.
Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Ms. Oteng Thamuka, paid tribute to the women in the Directorate, recognizing their vital contributions to families, communities, and the justice system, while reaffirming that mental health must remain a top priority in demanding legal environments.
In closing, Mr. Joe Gabalaolwe, a Wellness Committee member, urged staff to support one another and avoid suffering in silence, noting that collective responsibility is key to maintaining a healthy and effective institution.
