Research is 'the key to health'

Medical researchers have been called upon to turn the country into a "health hub" by developing and exporting vaccines and drugs.

Addressing academics from across the country, Health Department director-general Precious Matsoso said: "South Africa is a site for clinical trials, but we do not do drug development. So I'm calling for drug development."

She said it was necessary to promote domestic and export markets for drugs and vaccines.

Deputy Health Minister Gwen Ramokgopa said research could help solve health problems plaguing the country, saying that, for instance, "South Africa has not been able to solve the TB problem."

At present only 1.2% of the total health budget is allocated to research.