Healthcare news and intelligence for Southern Africa

Daily reporting for the pharmaceutical, medical scheme and hospital sectors, published by Health Matters since 1994.

8 October 2026

Cancer in South Africa is rising, with deaths forecast to nearly double by 2050. Learn what ageing, smoking and urbanisation mean for care.

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3 September 2024

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has unveiled a comprehensive preparedness and response plan to coordinate global efforts to contain the escalating mpox outbreak, which has been declared an international health emergency.

3 September 2024

National Health Insurance's future is at risk as political factions clash. Universal healthcare is crucial, but the debate over governance and funding delays progress.

3 September 2024

IRR calls for the repeal of the NHI Act, warning it could trigger a taxpayer exodus, reduce corporate tax revenue, and harm South Africa's economy.

26 August 2024

Health Minister offers a 2-week amnesty for lawyers to withdraw fraudulent medical negligence claims to curb billions lost and protect public healthcare.

26 August 2024

Ramaphosa's health compact plan hits a roadblock as key stakeholders refuse to sign, citing the government's unilateral push for the controversial NHI scheme.

26 August 2024

Africa's first 10,000 mpox vaccines arrive next week, highlighting global health inequities. WHO delays and challenges in vaccine access spark urgent action.

24 August 2024

The presidency formalises the second health compact despite a boycott by organised business and healthcare professionals.

24 August 2024

Gauteng advances plans for four new hospitals in Daveyton, Soshanguve, Orange Farm, and Diepsloot, aiming to bridge healthcare gaps.

24 August 2024

Adcock Ingram's turnover rose 6% to R9.6bn, driven by demand for winter cold and flu medicines. HEPS grew 10%, with the final dividend rising to 275 cents.

24 August 2024

The Gauteng Health MEC was summoned to explain unpaid invoices worth R1 billion affecting service delivery. The department pledged a reduction in payment delays.

24 August 2024

Africa faces mpox vaccine delays, mirroring COVID-19 challenges. Efforts are underway to secure vaccines and boost local vaccine production.

24 August 2024

New Jersey will erase $100 million in medical debt for 50,000 residents, providing relief through federal funds and a partnership with Undue Medical Debt.

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