Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi was admitted to the Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria on Tuesday, his ministry said.

"Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has this morning [Tuesday] checked into Steve Biko Academic Hospital for a surgical procedure and is likely to be out-of-office for at least a... week," health ministry spokesman Joe Maila said in a statement.

Deputy Health Minister Gwen Ramokgopa wished Motsoaledi a speedy recovery.

"All of us wish you well minister, and a speedy recovery. It is our wish that you recover soon," she said.