DA criticises government for spending nearly R30 million advertising NHI Act

JOHANNESBURG - The Democratic Alliance (DA) has criticized the government for spending close to R30 million on the advertising of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act.

Since 2019, government has run a number of marketing campaigns across the country aimed at educating the public about the NHI Act.

This has been revealed in a parliamentary response by Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoeledi, to questions posed by the DA.

READ: Godongwana says Motsoaledi must submit NHI rollout plan to be considered in the budget

The DA, which is part of the coalition government, has called the marketing of NHI, a waste of money.

"At a time when South Africa faces a healthcare crisis, with vacant doctor and nurse positions - this spending serves no purpose but to further its political agenda. Redirect these funds to fill the gaps in our public hospitals and improve care for South Africans" said DA health spokesperson, Michelle Clark.