The National Department of Health’s director-general, Sandile Buthelezi, along with Chief Financial Officer Phineas Mamogale and Acting Deputy Director-General Malixole Mahlathi, appeared in the Pretoria Commercial Crimes Court on charges of fraud and theft. They are accused of embezzling R1 million from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.
Key Takeaways
Three senior National Department of Health officials in South Africa have been charged with fraud and theft involving R1 million from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. They appeared in court and were released on bail under strict conditions.
- Three health officials accused of embezzling R1 million
- Charges include fraud, theft, and contravening the Public Finance Management Act
- Officials barred from returning to work until case conclusion
- Funds allegedly used for irregular appointments and payments
- Government emphasizes commitment to fighting corruption
The state alleges that the three officials were involved in unlawful appointments of service providers and ordered payments from the Global Fund that could not legally be made from that fund. Buthelezi faces an additional charge of contravening the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).
According to reports, between 30 August 2023 and 28 September 2023, the accused irregularly appointed two service providers, Ithani Amen (PTY) Ltd and N Mbileni J Tohlang-Nkopane Inc. These providers were paid via the Global Fund for conducting an investigation and chairing a disciplinary hearing against an employee.
The accused have been released on bail of R10,000 each under conditions that they cannot return to work premises until the conclusion of the matter, must hand over their passports, and inform the investigating officer if they intend to travel outside Gauteng. They are expected to return to court in June.
Civil society has reacted strongly to the case, with SECTION27’s health attorney Asiphe Funda describing it as “very disturbing and quite disappointing.” She emphasized that corruption in healthcare directly impacts vulnerable South Africans by potentially depriving them of necessary medication or medical attention. Funda called for decisive action from the National Prosecuting Authority to ensure the law takes its full course.
The government has reiterated its commitment to fighting corruption, aligning with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s 2026 State of the Nation Address. Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi is reportedly still being briefed on the circumstances surrounding the arrests and will issue a statement once fully informed.
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