Edition April 2025

Health Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi has reaffirmed government’s commitment to advancing global health equity and resilience in a world grappling with unprecedented challenges through universal health coverage.

The Minister made these remarks during his keynote address at the opening of the sec- ond meeting of the G20 Health Working Group (HWG), held at the Capital Zimbali Resort in Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal from 26 to 28 March 2025

“We must invest in accessible, affordable and comprehensive protection for all, ensuring that access to quality healthcare is not determined by one's ability to pay. The Minister explained that the NHI will also enhance the efficient use of available resources by pooling funds and strategically purchasing healthcare services.

“It is a concrete demonstration of our commitment to leaving no one behind, fostering equity and strengthening our health system's resilience,” added the Minister.

The meeting was held under the theme, “Accelerating Health Equity, Solidarity and Universal Coverage”. Also in attendance were the Deputy Minister Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli and Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane.

The G20 HWG meeting featured several side events, offering delegates a platform to engage in both bilateral and multilateral discussions on critical issues, such as strengthening health systems and promoting equitable access to healthcare services.

The group is at the forefront primary healthcare for all. We are witnessing a concerning trend: declining global health budgets simultaneously with rising costs.

The Minister emphasised that this issue is especially pressing in the Global South, where many countries are struggling with unsustainable debt servicing.

He pointed out that these debt repayments are depleting crucial health budgets, leaving millions of people without access to essential healthcare services.

“We need innovative financing mechanisms that prioritise health, even in challenging economic times,” said the Minister.

South Africa is implementing a transformative strategy to achieve universal health coverage through the National Health Insurance (NHI) – a system designed to offer financial of global health governance, promoting international collabo- ration to tackle pressing health challenges. In an era defined by pandemics, antimicrobial resistance, and health inequities, the
HWG's role has never been more vital.

G20 Presidency and health priorities

Under South Africa’s G20 Presidency, the HWG continues to develop initiatives aimed at addressing global health challenges, with a focus on solidarity, equality, and sustainability. The first virtual HWG meeting, held in January 2025, outlined priorities that align with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, aiming to address the continent’s unique health challenges and opportunities.

Through these collective ef- forts, the G20 HWG is playing a key role in developing resilient global health systems, ensuring preparedness for future health emergencies and fostering equitable health outcomes worldwide.

A coordinated response to global health threats

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the vulnerabilities in global health systems, exposing disparities in healthcare access, financing and preparedness.

In response, the G20 HWG has prioritised strengthening health security, pandemic preparedness and resilient health systems. Key initiatives include support for the Pandemic Fund, which was launched to ensure sustainable financing for pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response in low- and middle-income countries.

Beyond pandemics, the HWG has also championed universal health coverage as a cornerstone of health resilience. By promoting investments in primary healthcare, digital health innovation, and equitable access to medical counter measures, the G20 is working to build a future where health emergencies do not disproportionately impact vulnerable populations.

Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) poses one of the most significant threats to global health and economic stability, with projections estimating up to 10 million deaths annually by 2050 if unchecked. The G20 HWG has reinforced commitments to a One Health approach, integrating human, animal and environmental health strategies to curb AMR. Investments in new antibiotic research, surveillance systems and regulatory frameworks are central to these efforts.

Harnessing digital health for equity and innovation

Digital transformation in health- care is a key agenda item for the HWG. The group is advocating for interoperable health data systems, telemedicine expansion, and artificial intelligence- driven diagnostics to improve healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved regions. These efforts align with broader G20 digital economy initiatives, ensuring that digital health solutions bridge, rather than widen existing health inequities.

A unified global health vision

As the G20 continues to shape global health policy, collaboration remains the cornerstone of success. Strengthening partner- ships with the World Health Organization, World Bank and regional health organisations will be essential in turning commitments into action.

By prioritising equity, innovation, and preparedness, the G20 HWG is not only responding to current health crises but also laying the foundation for a healthier, more resilient world. The coming years will test the effectiveness of these initiatives, but with sustained commitment, the G20 can drive transformative change in global health governance.