According to EWN, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has stated that he cannot allocate a budget for the National Health Insurance (NHI) until Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi provides a clear cost estimate. He emphasized the need for substantial improvements to healthcare facilities before NHI can be implemented, as many hospitals currently do not meet the necessary standards. The NHI has become a contentious issue, with conflicting political perspectives on its feasibility and funding. Godongwana highlighted that previous cost estimates were speculative and that the government must first assess the full financial requirements. His proposed budget includes a plan to accelerate hospital upgrades and infrastructure development, with increased funding windows to support healthcare workers and improve services. However, his inability to table the budget due to a VAT-related impasse with Government of National Unity (GNU) partners has further complicated the issue.
Poll Question: What’s your take on Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s stance on the NHI budget?
