New TB vaccine could assist in SA’s fight against TB: Motsoaledi

Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi

Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi says a new TB vaccine could be the biggest game changer in South Africa’s fight against Tuberculosis, HIV and AIDS.

Motsoaledi was addressing the TB Vaccine Preparedness Workshop in Sandton, north of Johannesburg, on Thursday.

The two-day event has been organised by his department in collaboration with the World Health Organisation.

TB experts are providing an update on the clinical trials that are underway, as well as sharing ideas on how the vaccine would be funded, developed, and distributed if it is successful.

Motsoaledi elaborates, “We have got to work much more than we could do with other vaccines. To make sure that this vaccine is rolled out. It would be revolutionary for high-burdened countries like ours. We saw how fast vaccines could be developed during COVID. But we have also learned during that period that science alone is not enough. You need public trust, strong systems, clear communication, and you also need equitable access for the whole population.”

TB Vaccine Preparedness Workshop to be held in Johannesburg from 23-24 July 2025. pic.twitter.com/yZhQOrRKSc

— National Department of Health (@HealthZA) July 22, 2025