JOHANNESBURG, 07 MAY 2026: The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) acknowledges the serious concerns raised by the Portfolio Committee on Health regarding the systematic failures and demands for accountability from NHLS. This was raised during the Portfolio Committee sitting held on 30 April 2026 regarding the presentation of the NHLS Revised Strategic Plan 2025-2030, the NHLS Annual Performance Plan FY2026/27, and the subsequent Committee Press Release dated 2 May 2026.
The NHLS further acknowledges that the Disclaimer Audit Opinion highlights significant and unacceptable deficiencies in internal controls. The NHLS upholds sound and good corporate governance standards and ethics and has since been working closely with the Auditor-General to address the gaps and prepare for the FY2025/26 audit.
Decisive corrective action encapsulated by the NHLS Revised Strategic Plan 2025-2030 and the NHLS Annual Performance Plan FY2026/27 is underway. Under the direction of the NHLS Board, the Executive is actively implementing remedial measures. These include implementation of a comprehensive, organisation-wide reforms to strengthen financial management systems, reinforce internal controls, address the audit findings and ensure improvements, invest in internal capacity, improve skills base, improve ageing infrastructure including the IT infrastructure and resilience, amongst others. These interventions are being executed with urgency and discipline, supported by clear timelines, enhanced oversight, and firm consequence management for non-compliance. The NHLS is committed not only to remedying these deficiencies but also to embedding a culture of transparency, accountability, and sustained operational excellence.
The NHLS remains the sole provider of high-quality, affordable diagnostic pathology services for over 85% of South Africa’s population. It has a network of quality-assured diagnostic laboratories countrywide, and supports surveillance of communicable diseases, occupational health, and cancer registry. The NHLS does not take lightly its responsibility to the millions of South Africans who rely on its services.
Working closely with the Portfolio Committee and the National Department of Health, the NHLS will continue to address these challenges decisively and fulfil its mandate with reliability, integrity, and urgency that the country expects.
For more information and media enquiries:
Mr Mzi Gcukumana
Senior Communications Manager
066 376 3171
Mzimasi.gcukumana@nhls.ac.za