Category: South Africa Government

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Call to plant one million trees

Source: Government of South Africa

Call to plant one million trees

The Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Bernice Swarts, has called on South Africans to plant trees to help reduce the impact of carbon emissions and restore natural ecosystems.

“I learnt that we are not doing enough to meet the tree planting targets. This is due to limited resources within the fiscus. There is a realisation now that we can do better through collaboration,” Swarts said on Thursday in Durban.

Addressing the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) National Urban Forum in KwaZulu-Natal, the Deputy Minister explained that tree planting is a valuable tool in the fight against climate change as it acts as a natural carbon sink by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. 

“While not a complete solution, reforestation and afforestation initiatives play a crucial role in mitigating climate change and helping communities adapt to its impacts,” she said.

Trees provide a range of benefits beyond carbon sequestration, including habitat for biodiversity, soil stabilisation, and water purification.

South Africa’s Constitution recognises that everyone has a right to an environment that is not harmful to human health and well-being, and to have the environment protected, for the benefit of present and future generations.

“Tree planting has been happening in South Africa for a number of years, this then led to the President of the Republic of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, directing that the tree planting programme be escalated to Ten Million Trees over a period of five years starting from 2020/21.”

READ | Campaign to plant trees and help mitigate effects of climate change

The Deputy Minister challenged the nation to plant one million trees on 24 September 2025 as part of celebrations for Arbor Month. 

“The target that is set is not only for the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), but it is a call for action to other role–players to assist in achieving the target. I am calling on all South Africans to plant one million trees.
“This initiative has been consulted with a number of stakeholders who have shown interest in planting the trees. It is also important to note that once the trees are planted, they need to be taken care of, hence we have identified safe space to do the planting,” Swarts said.

The safe spaces include human settlements, clinics, schools, and police stations. 

“The idea is that these trees must be available when we come back to audit them. Furthermore, this initiative is structured such that citizens of the country start to appreciate the role that trees play in our daily lives. In terms of municipalities, the department is also assisting with [the] drafting of greening plans to ensure that all areas are greened appropriately,” she said.
The DFFE has noted with concern the increased pressures on natural forests, especially coastal forests due to urban development.

“Forests also play a crucial role in mitigating various natural disasters, acting as natural buffers against events like floods, landslides, and droughts. Deforestation, however, significantly weakens these protective functions, increasing disaster risks and impacts. 

“Deforestation, the clearing of forests, also significantly undermines disaster risk management efforts. It is therefore important that urban planners, particularly in cities like Durban / eThekwini, [to] take into account the need to safeguard the integrity of the environment,” the Deputy Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Police seize illicit cigarettes 

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, August 22, 2025

A multidisciplinary inter-provincial cross border operation comprising the Northern Cape, Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Free State provinces successfully disrupted the trade and distribution of illicit cigarettes in and around Colesberg on Wednesday.

According to Northern Cape police, search warrants were obtained and executed, resulting in the seizure of counterfeit cigarettes valued at approximately R370 000.

Members of Colesberg South African Police Service (SAPS), Kuyasa SAPS, Crime Intelligence and South African Revenue Services (SARS) customs acted on intelligence and approached a general dealer in Kerk Street, Colesberg, where illicit cigarette trading was suspected.

“A suspicious truck parked next to the store was also searched. Police discovered a further consignment of counterfeit cigarettes valued at approximately R2.5 million, which was seized as well as the truck,” said the SAPS in a statement.

The operation continued at a filling station in station Road, Colesberg, where additional counterfeit cigarettes worth an estimated R590 000 were confiscated.

The total estimated value of the seized cigarettes and the truck stands at R7.5 million. The owners were issued a seven-day notice to provide original documentation for the goods,” the police said.

The Provincial Police Commissioner of the Northern Cape, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the team for their work.

She reiterated that the SAPS and its partners remain unwavering in their efforts to eradicate the illicit trade in counterfeit goods which pose a serious threat to the country’s economy. – SAnews.gov.za

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Call for bold innovation to tackle water challenges

Source: Government of South Africa

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo has called for bold innovation, cross-border collaboration, and sustainable practices to confront the escalating global water crisis.

Speaking at the 3rd International Conference on Earth and Environmental Sciences (ICEES 2025) gathering held this week, Mahlobo warned that South Africa’s water scarcity demands urgent action and cannot be treated as “business as usual.”

Organised by the University of Zululand in partnership with Chang’an University in China, the conference held from 17-20 August at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, brought together leading scientists, policymakers, industry experts, and emerging scholars.

It provided delegates the opportunity to share knowledge, present groundbreaking research, and explore actionable strategies for ensuring a sustainable future.

Mahlobo participated in a high-level panel on Water Security and Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) alongside the department’s Deputy Director-General, Dr Risimati Mathye, and uMngeni-uThukela Water Chief Executive, Sandile Mkhize.

“There is ample evidence showing how semi-arid our country is, and that it cannot be business as usual. That is why the department, and government published the National Water Resource Strategy Number 3.

“This aims to reassess the water deficit and to investigate new technologies, such as water desalination, as well as partnerships with higher education for research to improve existing water sources, including groundwater, effluent reuse, and assessing the cost-effectiveness and feasibility of these options,” Mahlobo said.

Mahlobo also emphasised the importance of integrating Indigenous Knowledge Systems and practices into solutions, as they are a form of science that modern technology can build upon.

“Communities are not passive beneficiaries; they are stakeholders. Their lived experiences of droughts and floods, and their land management practices, hold vital lessons for building resilience.”

He further challenged the scientific community to ensure that their research findings inform governance and decision-making, rather than remaining in academic silos.

“Being a scientist or engineer does not mean stepping away from governance. Choose to be part of the main table where critical decisions are made, or risk being sidelined while the future of shared prosperity is shaped without your input,” the Deputy Minister said.

The 2025 edition of the gathering held in KwaZulu-Natal, placed particular focus on climate change, sustainable water management, pollution control, and interdisciplinary approaches to global sustainability.

The ICEES 2025 aimed to bridge gaps between research and implementation, fostering collaborative solutions to global challenges.

In an era of escalating environmental crises, the conference highlighted the role of scientific communities in shaping policies, driving sustainable practices, and promoting global equity. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Hlabisa advocates for urbanisation as a catalyst for growth

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has emphasised that urbanisation can catalyse growth, innovation, and social inclusion, if managed effectively. 

The Minister delivered the keynote address at the 2025 National Urban Forum (NUF), currently taking place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal.

The two-day forum marks South Africa’s second NUF, reaffirming the country’s commitment to the global urban agenda through continuous policy refinement and implementation.

This year’s edition coincides with South Africa’s Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) and Urban20 (U20), further amplifying its significance on the international stage.

Hlabisa stated that the forum is addressing critical challenges such as rapid urban migration, which places pressure on infrastructure, including transport, water, and housing.

It also promotes environmental sustainability through balanced urban growth and protection, and advocates for urban social cohesion through equitable access to services supported by integrated planning.

Speaking in his capacity as the policy custodian of the Integrated Urban Development Framework (IUDF), Hlabisa described the forum as a strategic opportunity to reshape urban life.

Reflecting on the progress of the IUDF (2020–2025), Hlabisa highlighted achievements in spatial planning, small-town regeneration, and innovative financing models, while recognising ongoing issues such as fragmented implementation and limited municipal capacity.

He called for recalibrated strategies that promote inclusivity and improve the quality of life for all citizens.

The Minister believes that the forum catalyses socio-economic transformation, highlighting the importance of partnerships with academia and the private sector to turn urban development plans into actionable outcomes.

“The National Urban Forum is not a talk shop. It is a platform for action,” he said. 

He outlined the core principles guiding the current review of the IUDF implementation plan. 

This approach emphasises collaboration across government and society to establish accountability and foster inclusive urban development, ensuring that the voices of marginalised groups – such as women, youth, and persons with disabilities are elevated.

The plan also focuses on innovation in financing and technology, leveraging digital advancements while promoting climate resilience and sustainability. 

It is anchored in solid municipal strategies and aims to strengthen local government capacity through targeted support and enhancement of skills.

“At the heart of these engagements is the realisation of the IUDF vision of creating liveable, safe, resource-efficient cities and towns that are socially integrated, economically inclusive, and globally competitive – where residents actively participate in urban life.”

The IUDF is South Africa’s policy framework for reorganising the urban system to ensure cities and towns are inclusive, resource-efficient, and conducive to improved living and working conditions.

It aligns with the National Development Plan (NDP) and promotes a shared understanding across government and society for managing urbanisation effectively, in line with the District Development Model (DDM).

In addition, adopted globally in 2016, the New Urban Agenda (NUA) serves as a roadmap for creating sustainable, resilient, and inclusive cities. It highlights that well-managed urbanisation is a crucial driver for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This year’s NUF offers a collaborative platform for government, civil society, the private sector, and other stakeholders to tackle South Africa’s urban development challenges. 

In addition, it serves as a precursor to the 12th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12).

“Cities are not just spaces; they are stories. Let us write the next chapter together, one of justice, opportunity, and sustainability for all,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Deputy President Mashatile to attend the National Arts and Culture Awards and the South African Sports Awards

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Friday, 22 August and Sunday 24 August 2025, attend and deliver remarks at the National Arts and Culture Awards (NACA) and the South African Sports Awards (SASA) scheduled to take place at Sun City Superbowl in the North West Province.

The NACAs, previously known as the Cultural and Creative Industry Awards, shine a national spotlight on the creators, innovators, and visionaries who push boundaries and shape our cultural identity. This year’s nominees reflect the rich diversity, imagination, and resilience that define South Africa’s creative sector.

The SASAs seek to recognise the contribution of sports towards social cohesion and unity, and celebrate courage and excellent performance in the field of sports.

Hosted by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, these awards reaffirm Government’s commitment to supporting the development of South Africa’s creative and sports industries. 

As a champion of social cohesion and nation building initiatives, Deputy President Mashatile is expected to highlight the importance of sports, arts and culture in shaping South Africa’s national identity, fostering social cohesion, and contributing to economic growth. 

Details of the events are as follows:

National Arts and Culture Awards

Date: Friday, 22 August 2025
Time: 20h00
Venue: Sun City Superbowl 

South African Sports Awards

Date: Sunday, 24 August 2025
Time: 20h00
Venue: Sun City Superbowl

Media enquiries:  Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidedcy
Pretoria

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Youth unemployment demands urgent and radical action

Source: Government of South Africa

Youth unemployment demands urgent and radical action

South Africa’s Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) has convened a critical meeting to address the country’s alarming unemployment rate, affecting a significant portion of the workforce, especially youth, women, and marginalised groups.

“We must acknowledge that the crisis of youth unemployment is particularly severe among young people not in employment, education, or training – the NEET cohort,” the Deputy President Paul Mashatile said on Thursday.  

The country’s second-in-command was speaking as Chairperson of the HRDC at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

He cited Statistics South Africa figures, which revealed that more than 3.5 million young people aged between 15 and 24 are disconnected from both the labour market and the education system. 

Research from the South African Labour Development Research Unit at the University of Cape Town also highlighted the heterogeneous nature of the unemployed youth. 

“Alarmingly, more than half of unemployed youth not in employment, education and training have been searching for work for over a year, underscoring the systemic barriers they face in securing a foothold in the labour market.”

Deputy President Mashatile referred to this as a persistent issue that requires the council’s innovation and leadership. “The future of the youth of South Africa is in our hands, and we must be radical in securing it.” 

The HRDC is a multi-stakeholder advisory body that includes representatives from the government, business, labour and civil society. Its mandate is to advise the state on issues related to developing the skills and human potential of all South Africans.

The HRDC is identified as crucial in addressing this crisis by improving workforce skills, creating jobs, and fostering economic growth.

He believes that the statistics should encourage the council to reassess its role in engaging various stakeholders and social partners to develop skills that align with the needs of the South African economy.

“We must adopt a proactive stance and address the disparity between labour supply and demand,” Deputy President Mashatile said, highlighting the urgent need for innovative strategies.

He stressed the need for the HRDC to focus on the discipline of execution and ensuring policies are implemented effectively.

“We have at this stage mastered the art of policy making; however, some of these policies are not coming alive in the areas where they are needed to transform the lives of South Africans and the youth.” 

He believes the school system faces difficulties in cultivating the skills required for a globalised, knowledge-driven economy, with a scarcity of skilled educators and a discord between existing skills and employer requirements.

However, he told delegates that the country is working to improve educational outcomes.

“The country is actively working to improve educational outcomes, particularly in foundational learning, and to attract and retain skilled professionals.” 

In addition, initiatives like workplace integrated learning, career guidance, mentorship programme, entrepreneurship, and public employment programmes are crucial.

“Our nation requires us to have an integrated approach across a variety of sectors and levels, beginning with the development of young children and ending with their entry into the labour market. 

“We need to do this with new energy and determination to build an HRDC that makes a difference in our communities.” 

He called for the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) to be at the forefront of integrating real-world experiences into education, fostering collaboration between educational institutions and employers, and equipping students with relevant skills.

With technological advancements rapidly transforming job markets, the council stressed the critical need for adaptable, digitally-inclusive skills development programmes that prepare youth for future economic challenges.

“The South African community must become digitally adaptive to ensure digital inclusivity for future generations.

“We must refocus our curriculum and skills development programmes to align with industry, economic, and social needs. As technology advances exponentially, today’s abilities may become obsolete tomorrow.”

The Deputy President highlighted the G20 Leaders’ Summit, emphasising the opportunity to create more inclusive and resilient education systems that prepare students for the future. – SAnews.gov.za

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President urges deeper South Africa–Japan trade and investment ties

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for stronger economic and investment partnerships between South Africa and Japan, highlighting the opportunities in critical minerals, renewable energy, agriculture and advanced manufacturing. 

Addressing the South Africa–Japan Business Forum on the sidelines of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) Summit in Yokohama on Thursday, the President said the next phase of bilateral relations should be grounded in “innovation, resilience and inclusive prosperity”.

“This year marks 115 years of relations between South Africa and Japan. It is an opportune time to strengthen our long-standing economic relationship,” the President told delegates.

He noted that recent tariff changes by the United States had underscored the importance of diversifying South Africa’s export markets, with Japan emerging as a key partner in efforts to build resilient global supply chains.

The President welcomed Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s recent remarks signalling Japan’s willingness to adjust tariffs for partners under strain, saying this could form the basis for deeper tariff cooperation between the two countries.

President Ramaphosa said there was immense opportunities for South Africa and Japan to collaborate on integrated supply chains within strategic sectors, such as battery minerals, automotive components, renewable energy equipment and hydrogen technologies, which would strengthen both countries against external trade disruptions.

Japan is one of South Africa’s most important economic partners, with over 270 Japanese companies operating locally and sustaining more than 200 000 jobs. 

South Africa’s exports to Japan are dominated by minerals such as platinum, coal, manganese and titanium, while agricultural products like Rooibos tea, citrus, wine and avocados are making inroads into the Japanese market.

“South Africa is a top-tier global agricultural exporter, with strong sanitary and phytosanitary standards and traceability systems, with a growing range of niche, high-value products.

“Globally, we are ranked the number one exporter of Rooibos tea, the number one exporter of macadamia nuts, the second largest exporter of fresh citrus and the fifth largest exporter by volume of wine,” the President said. 

He added that South Africa remains a global leader in the supply of platinum group metals, manganese and vanadium – all critical to Japan’s green technology industries.

“South African exports automotive components to Japanese auto manufacturers across global supply chains, chemicals and polymers, and stainless steel and fabricated metal products.

“Our products are not only export-ready but uniquely positioned to meet evolving Japanese consumer and industrial demands,” he said. 

He told delegates that South Africa’s economic recovery, renewal and expansion is being driven by a massive rollout of investment in energy, water, road, rail, port, telecommunication, digital and social infrastructure. 

“Through this, we are expanding economic capacity and improving efficiencies. We are improving policy certainty and have adequate investment protection mechanisms to reduce risks for prospective investors and existing industry players,” he said. 

He further urged Japanese businesses to take advantage of opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), positioning South Africa as a hub for manufacturing and innovation serving a market of 1.4 billion people. 

He highlighted that the country is also chairing key forums in the G20 and G7 outreach that focus on critical minerals, climate finance and industrial resilience.

“South Africa and Japan can jointly advocate for rules-based global systems that support fair trade, sustainable investment and value chain integration. Together, we will be able to build industrial corridors in electric vehicles, hydrogen and digital innovation.
 
“We should strengthen trading platforms for agricultural products, minerals and health goods. And we should harmonise tariff and regulatory frameworks to incentivise location of high-value manufacturing.
 
“We must work to translate our friendship into industrial and human development, with South Africa serving as a gateway to Africa,” the President said. 

The President further encouraged Japanese businesses to work together to seize the abundant opportunities that South Africa has to offer. – SAnews.gov.za

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Address by President Cyril Ramaphosa to the South Africa – Japan Business Forum on the margins of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development Summit, Yokohama, Japan

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director;
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau;
Ministers;
Ambassadors;
Business and industry leaders;
Distinguished guests;
Ladies and gentlemen;
 
It is a privilege to deliver these keynote remarks at a forum that heralds the next chapter of the South Africa–Japan partnership.
 
This next chapter is grounded in shared ideals of innovation, resilience and inclusive prosperity.
 
This year marks 115 years of relations between South Africa and Japan. 
 
It is an opportune time to strengthen our long standing economic relationship. 
 
The recent tariff decisions by the United States have tested South Africa’s reliance on historical markets. 
 
Our government has swiftly activated diversification strategies, including the re-establishment of trade offices and assistance desks. 
 
Japan is a key pillar in our outreach.
 
Prime Minister Ishiba’s recent remarks on Japan’s willingness to adjust tariffs for strained partners signal an alignment that could underpin deeper bilateral tariff cooperation.
 
This business forum provides a great opportunity to focus on what we have done so far, the opportunities between both our countries, and how we can tap into the benefits for a deeper partnership going forward.
 
There are immense opportunities for South Africa and Japan to collaborate on integrated supply chains within strategic sectors, such as battery minerals, automotive components, renewable energy equipment and hydrogen technologies.
 
This would enhance mutual resilience to external trade disruptions.
 
Japan is one of South Africa’s major economic partners and an important source of investment. 
 
South Africa’s exports to Japan are dominated by minerals such as platinum, coal, manganese, titanium and iron ore. 
 
Japan is South Africa’s most important trading partners in construction, manufacturing and technology. 
 
South African agricultural products currently found in the Japanese market include Rooibos tea, Appletiser juices, citrus, wine, avocados, butternut and maize. 
 
South Africa is a top-tier global agricultural exporter, with strong sanitary and phytosanitary standards and traceability systems, with a growing range of niche, high-value products.
 
Globally, we are ranked the number one exporter of Rooibos tea, the number one exporter of macadamia nuts, the second largest exporter of fresh citrus and the fifth largest exporter by volume of wine.
 
South Africa is a leading global supplier of strategic and industrial minerals used in Japan’s green tech industries.
 
We are world leaders in the supply of platinum group metals and manganese. We are in the top five of vanadium producers and have untapped potential in rare earths.
 
South African exports automotive components to Japanese auto manufacturers across global supply chains, chemicals and polymers, and stainless steel and fabricated metal products.
 
Our products are not only export-ready but uniquely positioned to meet evolving Japanese consumer and industrial demands.
 
Over 270 Japanese companies have a notable presence in the South African economy, sustaining over 200,000 local jobs. 
 
Our strategic position on the African continent, our developed infrastructure and active private sector make South Africa a strong base for regional expansion.
 
We are on a path to revolutionise our energy sector in pursuit of low-carbon, climate resilient development.
 
We are actively seeking investment in the energy sector with a particular focus on renewables and green hydrogen.
 
South Africa is one of the most cost-effective hydrogen producers globally. 
 
We have introduced policies to promote the development of the electric vehicle industry in South Africa.
 
We invite co-investment on manganese, vanadium, platinum group metals and rare earths beneficiation aimed at the clean energy and mobility markets.
 
Investments in AI agriculture, diagnostics, cloud services and pharmaceutical manufacturing will serve both domestic and African demand.
 
South Africa’s economic recovery, renewal and expansion is being driven by a massive rollout of investment in energy, water, road, rail, port, telecommunication, digital and social infrastructure. 
 
Through this, we are expanding economic capacity and improving efficiencies. 
 
We are improving policy certainty and have adequate investment protection mechanisms to reduce risks for prospective investors and existing industry players. 
 
We are committed to taking advantage of intra-Africa trade and financial cooperation through the African Continental Free Trade Area. 
 
Under the African Continental Free Trade Area, South Africa is positioning itself as a continental industrial hub, both in manufacturing and innovation.
 
We invite Japanese companies to co-invest in value chains anchored in South Africa that serve the continental market of 1.4 billion people.
 
South Africa is firmly behind the African Union’s economic priorities, particularly infrastructure connectivity, climate adaptation and industrialisation. 
 
We are also chairing key forums in the G20 and G7 outreach that focus on critical minerals, climate finance and industrial resilience.
 
South Africa and Japan can jointly advocate for rules-based global systems that support fair trade, sustainable investment and value chain integration.
 
Together, we will be able to build industrial corridors in electric vehicles, hydrogen and digital innovation.
 
We should strengthen trading platforms for agricultural products, minerals and health goods.
 
And we should harmonise tariff and regulatory frameworks to incentivise location of high-value manufacturing.
 
We must work to translate our friendship into industrial and human development, with South Africa serving as a gateway to Africa.
 
South Africa is ready to partner with Japan in achieving durable, innovation-driven African economic development.
 
I encourage Japanese businesses to work together to seize the abundant opportunities that South Africa has to offer.
 
I wish you all well in the deliberations going forward.
 
I thank you.

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Tributes for ITHPCSA member, Mme Ntswaki Maria Siease

Source: Government of South Africa

The Interim Traditional Health Practitioners Council of South Africa (ITHPCSA) has announced the passing of Mme Ntswaki Maria Siease, a dedicated member of the council, who passed away earlier this month.

The ITHPCSA praised Siease who passed away on 12 August, for her distinguished service and unwavering commitment to the council.

“She was an active member of the Legal Committee as well as the Registration, Education and Accreditation Committee, where her contribution, wisdom, and leadership enriched the work of the Council,” the statement read. 

The team said she was passionate about advancing the recognition, regulation, and professionalisation of traditional health practice in South Africa.

In accordance with Section 7(c) of the Traditional Health Practitioners Act, No. 22 of 2007, the council consists of a maximum of 22 members, appointed by the Minister of Health in the prescribed manner.

It plays a critical role in upholding ethical standards, protecting public health, and promoting the recognition and integration of traditional healing within South Africa’s broader healthcare system.

Siease was appointed as one of the nine traditional health practitioners representing each province. 
“She carried this responsibility with pride, dignity, and a deep sense of duty to both the council and the communities she served.”

Beyond her council responsibilities, she also served as a member of the Free State Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC), where she worked tirelessly to promote safe, culturally rooted, and regulated initiation practices. 
“Her involvement at both provincial and national levels demonstrated her dedication to preserving and safeguarding African traditions while ensuring the well-being of communities.”

The council, under the leadership of Sheila Fihliwe Khama, Chairperson of the ITHPCSA, has since extended its deepest condolences to the Siease family, friends, colleagues, and community during this time of mourning.

She will be laid to rest on Saturday, 23 August 2025, at Matsikeng in the Free State. The service will begin at 8 am. – SAnews.gov.za

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Health Minister to host NHI session Cape Town

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, will this evening engage with medical students and the healthcare community at the University of Cape Town.

This discussion will focus on the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act, a legislative reform aimed at achieving universal health coverage and addressing the healthcare needs of all South Africans.

The session is part of the Minister’s countrywide roadshow to address the concerns and unpack the benefits of the NHI to the entire population, including ordinary citizens who currently rely only on the public health system for healthcare. 

READ | Health Minister takes NHI roadshow to KZN

“Motsoaledi will use this opportunity to dispel any myths and misinformation about this legislative reform, which is part of the country’s transformative agenda to address the existing disparities in the current fragmented health system,” the advisory, ahead of Thursday’s meeting, read. 

Since the NHI was enacted by President Cyril Ramaphosa in May 2024, numerous stakeholders from various sectors of society have reached out to the Ministry of Health to request exclusive engagement regarding the NHI Act. 

The stakeholder engagement programme includes ordinary people, healthcare providers, health professionals, faith-based organisations, traditional leaders, and young people who will benefit most from the phased implementation of the NHI Act.
The country is actively working towards achieving universal health coverage through the NHI system. 

The NHI aims to offer financial protection for everyone, ensuring that access to quality healthcare is not determined by an individual’s ability to pay. 

It also seeks to use resources efficiently by pooling funds and strategically purchasing services. – SAnews.gov.za