PretoriaA judge voided R12.6 billion in antiretroviral drug awards.

Millions in South Africa take the three-drug pill daily, and stockouts could be life-threatening.

Innovata and Viatris lacked a valid manufacturing licence at bid close, and Innovata and Barrs received ownership points they never proved.

Current suppliers keep delivering, and the order takes effect only 90 days after new awards.

The health department has 120 days to redo the awards and investigate whether Innovata and Barrs colluded.

How each outlet framed it
Daily Maverick
outlines the tender's public-health stakes, noting tenofovir, lamivudine and dolutegravir are the first-line ARV regimen for adults

Sources: Daily Maverick