The Ebola outbreak in the DRC highlights Africa’s need for greater pharmaceutical sovereignty. Reliable supplies of protective equipment and rapid diagnostics are essential, while the absence of a licensed Bundibugyo vaccine underscores dependence on external products.
The Department of Health has assured South Africans that the supply of antiretroviral (ARV) medicines will not be disrupted following a High Court ruling overturning parts of the R15.5 billion ARV tender.
SAHPRA has reportedly stopped approving new Section 21 applications for medical cannabis since July 2026, without explaining the decision.
The Department of Health spent R1.3bn on the NHI project during 2025/26, despite implementation of the NHI Act being effectively paused while constitutional challenges are before the courts.