South Africa's Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi opened a joint meeting of SADC health ministers in Sandton on February 24, 2026. He highlighted critical health areas amid regional challenges and launched a new strategy on sexual and reproductive health rights. The gathering focuses on reviewing progress and enhancing collaboration across the region.
Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, South Africa's Minister of Health, officially opened the SADC Joint Meeting of Ministers of Health and Ministers Responsible for HIV and AIDS at the Sandton Hotel in Gauteng. The event, held on February 24, 2026, brings together officials from across the Southern African Development Community to address shared public health issues.
During the opening, Motsoaledi outlined key priorities for health in the region. He noted challenges stemming from funding withdrawals by some countries from United Nations entities. In his remarks, he stated, “Facing an operational crisis, we have observed how some countries have withdrawn funding from United Nations entities, frankly considered ineffective or misaligned with their national interests. Entities involved in human rights and specific health initiatives, such as sexual and reproductive health rights, have been severely affected.”
A highlight of the meeting was the launch of the 4th Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Strategy and Scorecard by the SADC Health Ministers. This initiative represents a milestone in building regional solidarity on these matters. Leaders at the meeting are reviewing progress on existing health commitments while seeking ways to bolster cooperation.
The discussions underscore ongoing efforts to tackle public health priorities collectively in the SADC area.