Ramaphosa Appoints Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams as Acting Health Minister

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams as Acting Minister of Health while Dr Aaron Motsoaledi remains on sick leave.

The Presidency announced on Sunday that the appointment, made in terms of Section 98 of the Constitution, takes effect on 24 August 2026 and will remain in place until 30 September 2026.

Ndabeni-Abrahams will assume all responsibilities and functions of the Health Minister during this period, ensuring continuity in the department while Motsoaledi recovers.

Motsoaledi, who is serving his second term as Health Minister after previously holding the portfolio between 2009 and 2019, remains on sick leave. The Presidency has not disclosed further details regarding his illness or recovery.

Ndabeni-Abrahams will continue serving as Minister of Small Business Development alongside her temporary responsibilities in the Health portfolio.