Healthy Living Alliance pushes for sugar tax increase to combat non-communicable diseases ahead of the budget speech
South Africa faces a health crisis, and experts say a higher sugar tax could be the solution.
With South Africa facing a worsening diabetes crisis, the Healthy Living Alliance (HEALA) hosted a media roundtable at Clico Boutique Hotel on February 13, to advocate for an increase in the Health Promotion Levy (HPL). The discussion comes just days before the 2025 Budget Speech on February 19, where stakeholders hope for decisive action on public health policies.
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The event, facilitated by Tumisang Ndlovu, brought together a panel of experts, including Nzama Mbalati, CEO of HEALA, Baone Twala, a human rights specialist, and Dr Asafika Mbangata, a public health expert. They highlighted the urgent need for a stronger sugar tax to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, which have become a major burden on South Africa’s healthcare system.
According to health reports, NCD related deaths have risen by 58.7% over the past two decades, with diabetes now the second leading cause of death after tuberculosis. In 2022 alone, the disease was responsible for 25 000 deaths, significantly impacting families, workplaces, and the economy. The financial cost of diabetes to the South African healthcare system is estimated at R2.7b, a figure that could be much higher when undiagnosed cases are considered.
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HEALA argues that doubling the current sugar tax from 10% to 20% would help reduce sugar consumption and, in turn, lower the risk of NCDs. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also recommended higher taxes on sugary drinks, stating that unhealthy diets contribute to approximately 8 million deaths worldwide each year.
With Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana set to deliver the national budget in a few days, HEALA, and other health advocates, are hoping for policy changes that prioritise public health. The organisation firmly believes that preventing NCDs through taxation is a necessary step toward a healthier South Africa.
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