Health Committee Alarmed by Forced Sterilization of HIV-Positive Women, Summons Government

The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Health has expressed deep concern and shock over a report detailing the long-standing and systemic forced or coerced sterilization of black, impoverished HIV-positive women in South Africa. The committee received the update from the Her Rights Initiative (HRI) on Thursday, November 27, 2025.

Forced Sterilization Declared a Form of Violence and Torture

Committee Chairperson, Ms. Faith Muthambi, emphasized the gravity and urgency of the matter, noting that the report arrives during the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign.

“Forced sterilisation is not only a violation of reproductive rights. It constitutes a form of gender-based violence, discrimination and torture,” said Ms. Muthambi.

The report reveals that for over two decades, women—particularly those who are black and poor—have been subjected to these procedures in health facilities, often without informed consent. Victims reportedly suffer lifelong physical, psychological, cultural, and social harm, with the majority remaining uncompensated and ignored.

Disturbing Findings and Demands for Accountability

The Committee expressed specific alarm over several systemic failures highlighted in the HRI report:

• The disproportionate targeting of black and poor women.

• The lack of action taken by relevant government departments.

• The loss or destruction of medical records.

• The failure to implement recommendations previously made by the Commission for Gender Equality.

• The absence of rehabilitation and mental health support for victims.

• The lack of accountability for those responsible.

The Chairperson assured the nation that the committee will pursue the truth and ensure justice for the women whose rights, bodies, and dignity have been violated.

Institutions to be Summoned to Parliament

The Committee confirmed it will summon the following institutions to Parliament to account for the failures and inaction:

• Department of Health

• Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)

• Department of Justice and Constitutional Development

• Department of Social Development

• South African National AIDS Council (SANAC)

• Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities

The committee will demand:

• Full reports on actions taken to stop the practice.

• Accountability measures against those responsible.

• Recovery and preservation of medical records.

• Provision of support (medical, psychological, and social) for victims.

• Plans for redress and compensation.

• Timelines for legislative reform, including amendment of the Sterilisation Act.

Ms. Muthambi concluded by declaring, “As Parliament, we refuse to allow the bodies of black, and poor women to be sites of violence, discrimination and humiliation… The committee will pursue the truth, demand accountability, and ensure justice. Those responsible must answer, and the victims must be restored.“