Western Cape leads South Africa in health and life expectancy

The Western Cape has emerged as South Africa’s healthiest province, according to recent national data. Statistics South Africa’s 2025 mid-year population estimates project life expectancy in the region at 67.6 years for men and 72.2 years for women, outperforming national averages of 64.0 and 69.6 years, respectively.

A significant factor in these outcomes is the province’s HIV prevalence. Data from the Human Sciences Research Council indicates the Western Cape had the lowest prevalence in 2022 at 7.4%, compared to a national estimate of nearly 13%. While the region faces challenges with rising diabetes and heart disease, the active lifestyle in areas like Cape Town is noted as a contributing factor.

In addition to human health, the region’s natural environment remains a vital ecological asset. The Atlantic coastline, supported by the Benguela Current, hosts extensive kelp forests. These ecosystems, such as those showcased at the Two Oceans Aquarium, provide essential breeding grounds for marine life and play a role in climate regulation through carbon dioxide absorption.