President Ramaphosa hails Steve Biko Academic Hospital as NHI model

SOUTH AFRICA—President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended the Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria, describing it as a shining example of what South Africa’s public healthcare system can achieve.

During an oversight visit on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, the president toured the hospital’s state-of-the-art Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI) facility, which is the only one of its kind in Africa dedicated to cancer and tuberculosis drug development, advanced imaging, and clinical research.

Accompanied by Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, and other senior officials, President Ramaphosa expressed his admiration for the hospital’s world-class facilities and the professionalism of its staff.

He noted that even private hospitals refer patients to Steve Biko Academic Hospital, underscoring its reputation for excellence.

According to the president, this demonstrates the hospital’s role as a model for the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme, which aims to provide quality healthcare for all South Africans.

“What I have seen here is truly impressive,” Ramaphosa remarked. “The technology and facilities rival the best in the world, and the dedication of the staff—from cleaners to researchers—is evident everywhere you look. This is what the future of the NHI should look like.”

The president highlighted the collaborative efforts that made the NuMeRI facility possible, including partnerships between the Department of Health, the Department of Science and Innovation, the University of Pretoria, and private sector partners.

Walking through various departments, such as the cardiac catheterisation laboratory and radiology units, he praised the hospital’s high standards of cleanliness, organisation, and the cutting-edge medical equipment in use.

Ramaphosa was particularly impressed by the diversity and expertise of the staff, noting the strong presence of women and young professionals in leadership and technical roles.

 “Women run this facility as researchers, professors, doctors, and nurses, delivering top-class healthcare. I also saw many young people here, which bodes well for the future of our country,” he said.

The president also acknowledged the achievements of Professor Mike Sathekge, head of the Nuclear Medicine Unit, for his international recognition, as well as Professor Andrew Sarkin, who leads academic and clinical work at the hospital.

 Ramaphosa praised the hospital’s homegrown innovations, especially in the cardiology department, which has developed advanced medical equipment showcasing South Africa’s engineering and scientific talent.

Throughout his visit, President Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of replicating the Steve Biko Academic Hospital model nationwide.

“This is how a hospital should be run and managed. This is what the NHI must look like,” he emphasized.

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