New Minister of Health

The HPCSA welcomes the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the appointment of Dr Zweli Mkhize as the new Minister of Health.

Dr Mkhize comes with a wealth of experience in the health sector where over the course of a decade, he was the longest-serving MEC for Health in KwaZulu-Natal. He co-founded the Regional Health Forum and became a member of the National Health Forum, a consultative body for stakeholders in the health sector.

After graduating with an MBChB Degree from the University of Natal in 1982, Dr Mikhize did his internship at McCord Hospital in Durban, working at Edendale Hospital in Pietermaritzburg before going into exile in 1986 – where he continued with his medical practice in Swaziland and Zimbabwe. Upon his return to South Africa, he worked at Themba Hospital before starting his private practice in Pietermaritzburg in late 1991.

As a public servant, Dr Mkhize played an active role in the promotion of peace and stability in KwaZulu-Natal, where he was also a leader of government business, MEC for Health, Finance and Economic Development and eventually Provincial Premier. Prior to his current position, Dr Mikhize served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.

The HPCSA is confident that Dr Mkhize will deliver efficiently in this position and lead new and refreshing perspectives on advancing the health system of South Africa.

The HPCSA commits its support to the Minister and wishes him success in his tenure.