Motsoaledi to G20
By Lerato Mpembe
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has called on the G20 group of major economies to shift their focus towards public financing for health systems, describing it as a critical investment rather than a drain on national budgets. Speaking at the opening of the second G20 Health Working Group meeting in KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday, Motsoaledi urged global leaders to prioritise health funding to tackle pressing challenges like pandemics, inequality, and the rising tide of non-communicable diseases.
Motsoaledi Pushes for Global Health Focus
The three-day G20 Health Working Group meeting, hosted in Durban, brought together health ministers and delegates from the world’s leading economies to discuss solutions to global health crises. In his opening address, Motsoaledi emphasised the need for stronger partnerships and creative ways to fund health systems, particularly in countries facing financial constraints.
“We must prioritise public health over other competing interests, ensuring that adequate resources are allocated to meet the health needs of our populations,” he told the gathering. He argued that treating health funding as a burden misses the bigger picture – a healthy population drives economic growth and stability.
This meeting forms part of South Africa’s G20 Presidency, which runs from 1 December 2024 to 30 November 2025 under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.” It sets the stage for the G20 leaders’ summit in Johannesburg later this year, where health will be a key discussion point.
South Africa’s NHI: A Model for Equity
Motsoaledi used the platform to showcase South Africa’s ambitious National Health Insurance (NHI) system, which aims to provide universal health coverage for all citizens. “In South Africa, we are actively pursuing a transformative strategy to achieve Universal Health Coverage through our National Health Insurance system,” he said. “The NHI is a concrete demonstration of our commitment to leaving no one behind, fostering equity, and strengthening our health system’s resilience.”
The NHI, signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa in May 2024, has sparked debate at home, with critics questioning its affordability and implementation. However, Motsoaledi remains steadfast, pointing to its potential to bridge the gap between rich and poor in accessing quality healthcare. He highlighted how the system relies on mandatory prepayments – a shift from out-of-pocket expenses that often push families into poverty.
Tackling Non-Communicable Diseases
A major focus of Motsoaledi’s address was the growing threat of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, which are placing immense pressure on health systems, especially in low- and middle-income countries. He called for urgent action to ease the financial strain on governments and citizens alike.
“The G20 can play a pivotal role in shaping a robust global response to non-communicable diseases and ensuring that the United Nations high-level meeting delivers tangible results,” Motsoaledi said. He proposed measures like curbing the marketing of unhealthy foods, increasing taxes on sugary drinks, and boosting funding for emergency health services to address the NCD burden.
Recent statistics show that NCDs account for over 60% of deaths in South Africa, a trend mirrored across many developing nations. Motsoaledi stressed that without collective action, these preventable conditions could overwhelm already stretched health budgets.
Innovative Financing and Global Solidarity
Beyond NCDs, Motsoaledi urged G20 nations to explore innovative financing mechanisms to close funding gaps. He pointed to the need for climate-smart healthcare and support for vaccine manufacturing in Africa – initiatives that could strengthen health systems while addressing broader challenges like climate change and pandemics.
“Financial shortfalls in the health sector are not merely a budgetary concern, but a vital investment in the future,” he said. This call aligns with South Africa’s broader G20 agenda, which seeks to revive attention to global health emergencies, such as those in conflict zones like Gaza and Ukraine.
The minister also noted that a post-meeting communiqué will outline key resolutions from the Durban gathering. These commitments are expected to guide international cooperation on health through 2025 and beyond, with a focus on equitable financing and resilient systems.
🔴 Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 98 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: “Fezile Dabi Mayor Khasudi: ‘The Boreholes Exist, and the DA is Delivering for Residents”
Download Here:
Direct PDF Link:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Central-News-Issue-098.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube