Delegates
Working in Botswana
General Information
Number of occupational therapists in Botswana
31
Terminology
In
Botswana
, the term "occupational therapist" is also referred to as Tshidilo
Main language(s) spoken in Botswana
English
Other languages commonly spoken in Botswana
Setswana
Registration
Occupational therapists are required to register with a federal/national organisation to practice
Required
All therapists register with Botswana Health Professionals Council. Renewal of practice licence is done annually.
Occupational therapists are required to register with a state/regional organisation to practice
Not Required
It is compulsory to join the Botswana Occupational Therapy Association in order to practice as an occupational therapist
No
Practicing Requirements
Graduation from a WFOT approved programme is required to register to practice
Yes
Yes
Language(s) that are required for occupational therapists to practice
English
Additional requirements for occupational therapists to practice
Private Practice Practitioners are required to have Professional Indemnity Insurance, which protects against legal liability from their professional activities. This is a mandatory condition for private practice registration.
Employment Opportunities
Occupational therapy is recognised as a shortage occupation
Yes
There is a significant shortage of therapist's workforce in Botswana. Due to the geographical location of facilities, and low number of therapists in the regions, many occupational therapists experience burnout as a result of heavy workloads, administrative burdens, and complex caseloads.
Sources of information for occupational therapist employment opportunities
Occupational Therapists can find jobs through Newspaper advertisements and social media pages (e.g. Ministry of Health, BW Graduate Jobs, Botswana Occupational Therapy Association Facebook pages). Government jobs provide public service to the general population at a free cost. Private practice practitioners operate from their own clinics or private hospitals.
Immigration
Immigration regulations or visa requirements to practice
To work as an occupational therapist in Botswana, you must apply for registration with the Botswana Health Professionals Council (BHPC) and possibly a visa through the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs. All applicants must complete a registration examination though BHPC. Registration fees apply for successful applicants.
More details can be found through Botswana Occupational Therapy Association.
More details can be found through Botswana Occupational Therapy Association.
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Occupational therapy assistants exist in Botswana
No
Disclaimer: This information was provided by Botswana Occupational Therapy Association and was last updated on 14th July 2025. WFOT is not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or changes in the information provided. This information is intended as a guide and should be independently verified before making any decisions.
Education Programmes
WFOT Approved Programmes in Botswana
1