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As World Diabetes Day approaches on 14 November, the Healthy Living Alliance (HEALA) has launched a bold campaign calling on the South African government to increase the Health Promotion Levy (HPL) on sugary drinks from 11% to 20%.
HEALA says that failing to raise the sugar tax will cost the country thousands of lives and billions in health spending. The group highlights that one in four diabetes cases in South Africa is directly linked to sugary drink consumption.
“Raising the Health Promotion Levy is one of the simplest, most effective steps government can take,” said HEALA CEO Nzama Mbalati.
South Africa’s obesity rate is already double the global average, with sugary drinks a key driver of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes and heart disease.
Official Response
The Department of Health has not yet responded to HEALA’s call. However, the issue is expected to gain traction ahead of the 2026 Budget Speech. Researchers from PRICELESS SA (Wits University) estimate that raising the HPL could save 72,000 lives and prevent 85,000 strokes over 20 years.
The campaign is backed by researchers, health workers, and celebrities including actress Samela Tyelbooi, who said:
“We need government to increase the HPL, protect our children’s future, and stop putting profit before people.”
Community Impact
Two powerful personal stories are at the heart of HEALA’s campaign.
- Alphinah Setumo from Mathibestad lost her legs and eyesight after years of drinking sugary beverages.
- Mpho Thebe, a tutor from Kroonstad, now lives with a prosthetic leg after diabetes cost him his left limb.
Their experiences mirror many others in low-income communities, where sugary drinks are often cheaper and more accessible than healthy food or clean water.
“If I had known what I know now, my life would be different,” said Setumo.
Fast Facts:
- Diabetes is the 2nd leading cause of death in South Africa
- R33 billion spent annually on obesity-related diseases
- 1 in 4 diabetes cases linked to sugary drink intake
- Raising HPL to 20% could save 72,000 lives in 20 years
- Campaign slogan: #OneVoice
