The G20 Health Working Group met in South Africa to advance universal health coverage, sustainable financing, and NCD prevention. Leaders urged investment in resilient, inclusive healthcare systems.
The 2nd G20 Health Working Group Meeting, held in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, reaffirmed global commitments to universal health coverage (UHC) and sustainable health financing. South Africa’s Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, emphasised the urgency of strengthening primary healthcare systems and reducing health inequities, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He highlighted the setbacks in UHC progress due to COVID-19, economic downturns, and conflicts, with millions facing financial hardship due to health expenses.
Discussions focused on domestic resource mobilisation, debt relief, and innovative financing mechanisms to ensure health spending remains an investment rather than a cost. South Africa’s National Health Insurance (NHI) was presented as a model for achieving financial protection and equitable healthcare access. The meeting also addressed the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and the importance of preventive health policies. The outcomes will shape the upcoming G20 Health Ministerial Declaration and inform global strategies ahead of the 2025 UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs.
As South Africa leads the G20 presidency, the call to action is clear: prioritise public health financing and build resilient, inclusive health systems for a sustainable future.
