Motsoaledi said the additional R198 million underlines the confidence the UK government has in the healthcare programmes being developed in South Africa.

The funds will go towards the improvement of reproductive, maternal and child health (RMCH) services, delivery of school health, municipal ward-based primary health care, and obstetric and neonatal emergency services.

Money will also be used for improved demand and accountability for RMCH services and new knowledge to remove barriers to uptake and access RMCH services.

During the UK visit, Motsoaledi also met with the Quality Care Commission, the government authority handling medical litigation, the National Health System and colleges of obstetrics & gynaecologists and family practice.

He also met with 30 South African nurses currently working in the UK, who indicated a desire and willingness to come back home and work in South Africa.

South African High Commissioner to the UK, Dr Zola Skweyiya, welcomed the support shown by the UK government, noting that it further strengthened the longstanding and deeply entrenched relationship between South Africa and the UK.

“This type of ongoing support is extremely helpful to us achieving our health goals as the government of South Africa strives to improve the lives of all South Africans,” said Skweyiya.