South Africa's NHI Rollout in 2026: Is It Actually Happening?
NHI is signed into law but South Africa's rollout is on hold pending a 2026 Constitutional Court ruling. Here's the real state of play.
Health
Welcome to the Health section of the South Africa Facts blog. Here we cover the practical side of healthcare in South Africa, from medical aid costs and tax credits to pregnancy milestones and children's growth charts. We also look at public health issues like air quality across the country's cities. Every guide is written to help you make informed decisions about your family's health and healthcare spending.
Amasi: The Benefits and Risks of South Africa's Traditional Sour Milk
What the research says about South Africa's traditional fermented milk, from its probiotics and calcium to the real risks of the homemade, unpasteurised version.
Food Security in South Africa: What the Numbers Actually Show
Stats SA's own numbers show food insecurity rising sharply since 2019. Here's what's driving it, who it hits hardest, and what's actually helping.
Kimchi Health Benefits and How to Make It in South Africa
Kimchi is trending on South African menus, but does it live up to the hype? Here's what the science actually says about its health benefits, plus a step-by-step recipe using ingredients you can source locally.
How Bad Is South Africa's Air Quality, Really?
On a still winter morning Johannesburg has ranked as the most polluted big city on earth. Here's what's driving it, who pays the price, and what you can do.
How Much Does Medical Aid Cost in South Africa? 2026 Prices by Scheme
What the ten large schemes actually charge in 2026, the cheapest plans, what a family of four pays, the late-joiner penalty, and how to pick without a broker.
How to Read Your Baby's Road to Health Chart (and What the Percentiles Mean)
What do the lines and percentiles on the Road to Health chart mean, and is a low weight a problem? How to read your baby's growth, in plain language.
Antenatal Visits in South Africa: When to Book and the Full BANC+ Schedule
How antenatal care works in South Africa's public clinics: when to book, the 8-visit BANC+ schedule, and what happens at each visit.
Medical Aid Tax Credits in South Africa: How Much You Get, and the Extra One Most People Miss
SARS gives money back for being on a medical aid, and there are two credits, not one. How much you get in 2026/27, and the extra one most people never claim.