The South African government has expressed serious concern over reports of operation-dudula-blocks-immigrants-from-receiving-medical-treatment-at-jeppe-clinic-in-johannesburg/">groups and communities preventing foreign nationals from accessing healthcare at public facilities. These actions, driven by frustrations over strained public services, including overburdened clinics and exhausted healthcare workers, are unlawful and violate the country’s democratic principles.
The government acknowledges citizens’ concerns but urges the public to address grievances through legal channels. Taking the law into one’s own hands undermines the values of human dignity, equality, and human rights enshrined in the Constitution. Section 27(1) of the 1996 Constitution guarantees everyone the right to healthcare, regardless of nationality or immigration status. Blocking access based on origin is a clear violation of South African law and international agreements the country has signed.
Efforts are underway to strengthen the healthcare system, including increasing staff and resources to ensure dignified and efficient care for all. Concurrently, the government is addressing illegal immigration through enhanced border management and documentation systems. Law enforcement agencies are actively managing migration issues in line with applicable laws, with a firm stance against illegal immigration.
The South African Police Service (SAPS), in collaboration with the Department of Health, has deployed Public Order Police to maintain law and order at affected health facilities. A zero-tolerance approach is being enforced against those intimidating patients or disrupting services. The SAPS, working with the Department of Home Affairs, will continue to arrest and prosecute individuals violating the Immigration Act.
The government called on communities to uphold the rule of law, respect human dignity, and work towards a united, inclusive South Africa.
