Controversy erupts over R28m spent on NHI marketing

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In response to a parliamentary question from the Democratic Alliance (DA), Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi revealed the expenditure, which forms part of the government's broader efforts to educate the public about the NHI Act. Since 2019, various marketing campaigns have been rolled out nationwide to raise awareness of the policy.

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The DA has criticised the spending, calling it an "unnecessary and wasteful use of public funds," particularly at a time when the country’s public healthcare system is struggling with shortages of doctors, nurses, and other medical personnel.

"While the Minister pushes the flawed NHI scheme, South Africa faces a staggering shortage of healthcare workers. Another reply to a DA Parliamentary question reveals that the country’s doctor-to-patient ratio stands at 1:2,230, and the nurse-to-patient ratio is 1:762. Last year, 2, 000 critical medical posts were left vacant, and yet, thousands of qualified doctors and healthcare professionals remain unemployed or underemployed," said DA MP, Michelle Clarke.

The signing of the NHI Bill into law on 15 May 2024 was seen by some as a significant step toward universal health coverage. The NHI Act will be phased in gradually from 2024 to 2028, following a programmatic approach based on available financial resources.