Following a High Court order, Government has agreed to halt the proclamation and implementation of the NHI Act. This suspension will remain in place until the Constitutional Court rules on challenges regarding public participation. – Spotlight (13 March 2026)
SA’s healthcare system currently suffers from a lack of coordination between national, provincial and local levels. Weak information systems prevent the state from tracking performance or allocating resources effectively, resulting in a lack of accountability.
“Layering complex financial reforms onto unstable administrative systems creates risk rather than transformation.”
The state must use this time to confront:
Fragmented Governance: Poor coordination between stakeholders;
Human Resource Gaps: Persistent shortages of healthcare professionals; and
Data Deficits: A lack of reliable data for service planning.
“For the NHI to achieve equity and quality care, the state must first address fragmented governance and severe staff shortages. Health Coverage (UHC) cannot thrive on a fragile foundation.”