The National Health Promotion Policy and Strategy

Health is regarded by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a fundamental human right, and health promotion is defined as “the process of enabling people to increase control over their health and its determinants, and thereby improve their health”.
The foundations for health promotion are based upon the Alma Ata Declaration and subsequent charters as adopted by the WHO. This National Health Promotion Policy reaffirms the commitment of the Department of Health to promote the health of all
South Africans. This policy will contribute towards achieving the national vision of a long and healthy life for all South Africans by clarifying the role of health promotion at national, provincial and district levels and service delivery relationships with other
stakeholders.
The document outlines the quadruple burden of disease that South Africa is faced with, furthermore highlights the extent to which the health system struggles with four major health issues: non-communicable diseases (NCDs); communicable diseases (especially HIV and TB); maternal, neonatal and child morbidity and mortality; and deaths due to injury and violence. Health promotion has a significant role to play in reducing the burden of disease to the health system, by addressing the key social, behavioural and structural determinants of health. Improved intra and inter-departmental coordination is required to ensure that resources are applied efficiently and to create a culture based on the sharing of good practices. The Health Promotion Strategy and Policy clarifies the role of health promotion
in the health sector and other non-heath sectors. The document also highlights the need for collaborative efforts between the Department of Health and all other stakeholders.