PRETORIA, South Africa, September 16, 2026 President Cyril Ramaphosa has been booked off from public engagements after returning from the 18th BRICS Summit in India, with his medical team advising him to rest and recover.
The Presidency announced on Wednesday that Ramaphosa was unable to attend scheduled public engagements due to ill health. He returned to South Africa on Monday after attending the BRICS Summit in New Delhi from September 12 to 13.
Where possible, the President has asked relevant ministers to represent him at engagements that were already scheduled.
The announcement comes as Deputy President Paul Mashatile also continues his recovery after undergoing a minor medical procedure.
Mashatile said on Tuesday that his recovery was progressing well and that he was regaining strength each day. He said he would continue resting on the advice of his doctors while work and delegated responsibilities continued through his office and other government stakeholders.
The Presidency had previously said Mashatile became unwell while at home in Johannesburg, received medical attention and underwent a minor surgical procedure and observation before being discharged. His office said he has continued to receive medical care and rest and has remained in contact with his office.
Ramaphosa’s illness follows his participation in the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, where South Africa joined other member and partner countries for discussions on global economic cooperation, trade and investment, multilateral institutions and development.
The 18th BRICS Summit was held under India’s chairship and focused on the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Security.”
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