Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the gradual implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI) in South Africa.
“The Bill has arrived at my desk. I’m going through the Bill. I’m looking for a pen!” – said Ramaphosa on Thursday night, eliciting much laughter from a packed Joint Sitting of Parliament.
He was delivering his State of the Nation Address (SONA),
The NHI Bill, already passed by both the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, aims to provide free healthcare for all South Africans in both public and private health facilities.
“We plan to incrementally implement the NHI, dealing with issues like health system financing, the health workforce, medical products, vaccines and technologies, and health information systems.”
Ramaphosa highlighted the government’s focus on improving healthcare quality and access equality, acknowledging the significant impact of the health system on people’s lives.
The NHI implementation will address issues such as health system financing, the health workforce, medical products, vaccines, and health information systems.
Additionally, the president mentioned the construction of the state-of-the-art Limpopo Academic Hospital and improvements in healthcare infrastructure, emphasising advancements in medical technology and better care for citizens.
Ramaphosa also shared positive health indicators, including increased life expectancy and a decline in maternal and infant deaths.
The Sona covered various political, economic, and social matters in South Africa, setting the stage for a two-day parliamentary debate. The NHI Bill awaits President Ramaphosa’s signature for enactment.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
