“Our Healthcare System Is Collapsing”: Protesters Shut Out Foreign Nationals
SOUTH AFRICA – Residents of Atteridgeville, representing Concern Tshwane Residents (CTR), are escalating protests against foreign nationals seeking medical care at Kalafong Provincial Tertiary Hospital.
Protesters claim undocumented immigrants are overwhelming the public health system, worsening overcrowding and financial strain.
Despite warnings from the Gauteng Department of Health to halt the disruptions, the protesters refuse to back down.
CTR leader Kagiso Kekana insists the demonstrations will continue as part of a campaign to pressure the Health MEC and hospital CEO. “This is not a one-time action but an ongoing battle until we win,” he declared.
Protesters claim undocumented immigrants occupy 60% of hospital beds and account for 90% of patients, putting immense strain on medical staff.
“Our healthcare system is collapsing. Doctors and nurses are being forced into unnecessary leave due to the influx of immigrants,” said Kekana.
Operation Dudula’s Atteridgeville branch has thrown its support behind the protests. Member David Masedi argues that barring foreign nationals from public hospitals is a crucial step in reclaiming South African resources.
The Gauteng Health Department has strongly condemned the blockade.
Spokesperson Motaletale Modiba stressed that access to healthcare is a constitutional right, stating that no individual or group has the authority to deny treatment.
“Police have been deployed to manage the situation, and those obstructing healthcare access will be held accountable,” Modiba said.
Meanwhile, a report by IOL highlighted a troubling incident in which a pregnant Zimbabwean woman was turned away by protesters while seeking treatment at Kalafong Hospital.
The incident has sparked debate over the ethical and legal implications of denying healthcare based on nationality.
