As South Africa approaches this year’s budget speech on 25 February 2026, attention often focuses on unemployment, national debt, and inequality. Yet one policy with the potential to improve the lives of South Africans—particularly the poorest—rarely receives the spotlight it deserves: the Health Promotion Levy (HPL), better known as the sugary drinks tax. Thabiso Tema spoke to Zuki Zimela, Communications Manager at HEALA

<p>As South Africa approaches this year&rsquo;s budget speech on 25 February 2026, attention often focuses on unemployment, national debt, and inequality. Yet one policy with the potential to improve the lives of South Africans&mdash;particularly the poorest&mdash;rarely receives the spotlight it deserves: the Health Promotion Levy (HPL), better known as the sugary drinks tax. Thabiso Tema spoke to Zuki Zimela, Communications Manager at HEALA</p>

POWER Breakfast is a fast-paced three-hour news and current affairs show, alternating between the latest breaking news, political coverage, analysis, sport, market reports, weather and all your calls. Whether you’re in business, the public service or just want to stay informed, tune in as Thabiso TT Tema connects you to your world.

<p>POWER Breakfast is a fast-paced three-hour news and current affairs show, alternating between the latest breaking news, political coverage, analysis, sport, market reports, weather and all your calls. Whether you&rsquo;re in business, the public service or just want to stay informed, tune in as Thabiso TT Tema connects you to your world.</p>