The government intends to test 15 million people for HIV/Aids by June next year as part of the renewed offensive against the killer disease. In this year's budget, the Finance Minister, Pravin Gordhan increased the portion of HIV/Aids budget by 33%, up to R8 billion. 

The government hopes to cut the rate of infections by 50% next year and reach 80% of people who need ARVs. To achieve the target, the Ministry of Health has invited all retired health professionals to join the fight on a voluntary basis. In addition, the department will build five more new hospitals to increase its capacity to improve primary healthcare. 

Another department which is facing a major crisis is Basic Education. Over and above last year's poor matric results, it is facing an infrastructure backlog which is estimated at R140 billion. At the receiving end of this backlog are the poorest of the poor. 

Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has acknowledged the problem, outlining that there are still schools set-up under trees, mud schools as well as the problem of learners walking long distances to school. The government has prioritised education and health as lead projects for the next five years and beyond. But at the present pace of delivery and the available resources, government has a mountain to climb.