Drawing on the hard-won lessons of its battle against HIV, South Africa is now mounting a comprehensive effort to address the escalating obesity epidemic. Today, more than half of the country’s adult population—and over two thirds of women—are classified as overweight or obese, a surge that has dramatically shifted the nation’s health burden toward noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). These conditions now account for more deaths and disability than HIV/AIDS or tuberculosis and consume 15% of government health spending.
Health experts stress that the effective strategies employed two decades ago to reduce HIV stigma, secure antiretroviral treatment, and mobilize community support are proving invaluable as South Africa tackles obesity. The World Health Organization (WHO) is set to launch its Technical Package to Stop Obesity on March 4, 2025, coinciding with World Obesity Day, to guide countries in developing evidence-based, multisectoral responses.
South Africa’s government, a frontrunner in the WHO Acceleration Plan to Stop Obesity, has demonstrated strong political commitment. Dr. Jeanette Hunter, Deputy Director General Primary Care at the National Department of Health, emphasized that alongside prevention efforts, obesity care and treatment must be scaled up—particularly at primary and community care levels—to ensure accessible, lifelong support.
Bold reforms are already underway to transform the country’s food system and promote healthier lifestyles. Initiatives such as the 2018 sugar-sweetened beverage tax and new regulations to reduce salt in processed foods have contributed to a measurable decline in unhealthy consumption patterns. Meanwhile, the National School Nutrition Programme ensures that children receive healthy meals, setting the stage for long-term wellness.
Civil society has also joined the fight. The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation (DTHF) has expanded its research and advocacy from HIV to a broader focus that includes NCDs and mental health. “Obesity is the new South African epidemic, with many parallels to HIV. Both require lifelong care and impact every part of society,” said Dr. Nomathemba Chandiwana, Chief Scientific Officer at DTHF. Similarly, the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) continues its decades-long educational campaigns on healthy living, influencing public policy and safeguarding people’s right to quality health care.
By harnessing the combined strength of government, civil society, and academia, South Africa is poised to deliver transformative change in the fight against obesity—paving the way for a healthier, more sustainable future.
