The World Health Organization (WHO) country office in South Africa warmly welcomes the historic signing of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill into law by His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa, marking a significant milestone in South Africa’s journey toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC). This law ensures that all citizens, regardless of socio-economic status, have access to essential, high-quality healthcare services through the establishment of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

The enactment of the NHI law follows the bill’s approval by the National Assembly in June 2023 and the National Council of Provinces in December 2023. With this new law, South Africa affirms its commitment to ensuring healthcare access for all, as enshrined in the country’s constitution.

“In alignment with our United Nations  Cooperation Framework and our close collaboration with the Government of South Africa, the passage of the NHI Bill serves as a beacon guiding the country toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3.8 on Universal Health Coverage,” said Nelson Muffuh, United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator in South Africa. “This legislation will help guarantee access to essential healthcare services and financial protection for all South Africans, thereby promoting health and well-being across all ages.”

The WHO country office in South Africa has emphasized that the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic have underscored the urgency of strengthening the nation’s health systems. The pandemic demonstrated the critical role of UHC, particularly public health coverage, in ensuring health security and achieving equitable healthcare for all.

Dr. Fabian Ndenzako, Officer-In-Charge for the WHO country office in South Africa, stated: “The signing of the NHI law reaffirms South Africa's commitment to prioritize the health and well-being of its people. This follows the country’s endorsement of the comprehensive political declaration on Universal Health Coverage at the UN High-Level Meetings in 2019 and 2023.” Dr. Ndenzako further highlighted that this legislation aligns South Africa with global health goals and WHO’s vision for health equity.

The WHO remains a key partner in South Africa’s efforts to implement the NHI law effectively. WHO will continue to offer technical assistance to ensure that the law is implemented in line with international human rights standards, including the right to affordable and quality healthcare services. 

WHO South Africa’s role extends beyond legislative advocacy. It has actively monitored parliamentary progress on the NHI Bill and provided technical input, including written and oral submissions, to ensure the legislation supports public health outcomes. As South Africa embarks on implementing the NHI law, WHO remains committed to supporting the government and the people of South Africa in achieving health for all, and ensuring that no one is left behind.