President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa is scheduled to sign a national health bill on Wednesday with the goal of ensuring health coverage for all citizens, as announced by the country’s presidency.
This bill, enjoying widespread support from voters, is being signed just before the May 29 national election, which presents a significant challenge for the ruling African National Congress.
Approved by lawmakers last year, the bill comes with a hefty price tag amounting to billions and will be implemented gradually.
Its objective is to revamp the healthcare system, aiming to address long-standing racial and social inequalities that have persisted since the end of apartheid. However, it faces opposition from business groups concerned about potential disinvestment and economic repercussions.
Despite the signing, experts remain skeptical about immediate changes resulting from the bill’s implementation.