“We Will Not Watch Them Die” 45 Zimbabwean Nurses Launch Clinic To Treat Illegal Foreigners Only
A group of 45 Zimbabwean nurses and physicians living in South Africa has established a virtual clinic aimed at providing medical care to undocumented immigrants who are reportedly being denied access to public healthcare facilities. The initiative seeks to fill a growing gap for vulnerable communities in provinces including Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
The clinic was launched in response to complaints that foreign nationals, especially Zimbabweans, are frequently turned away from public hospitals despite South Africa’s constitutional obligation to provide healthcare as a human right. Many immigrants face barriers to accessing public services while being unable to afford private healthcare, leaving them at risk for untreated illnesses.
Operating through online platforms and mobile apps, the virtual clinic links patients with certified healthcare professionals for remote consultations, medical guidance, and referrals. A coordinator, who asked to remain anonymous, explained, “We cannot stand by and watch people die simply because they do not have the correct documentation. Our duty as medical practitioners is to save lives, not discriminate.”
Since its launch, the clinic has served more than 1,500 patients, primarily Zimbabwean citizens residing in Johannesburg, Durban, and Pretoria. Consultations are currently offered in English and Shona, with plans to expand into Ndebele and other regional languages. The team is also partnering with laboratories and pharmacies to make essential medications and diagnostic services more accessible, with long-term plans to introduce mobile health units for rural and informal settlements.
Health experts stress that excluding immigrants from care can have serious public health consequences. Dr. Mandla Khoza of Wits University noted, “Diseases do not recognise borders or legal status.” Advocates say inclusive healthcare not only protects vulnerable groups but also benefits the broader population by improving disease monitoring and treatment. Additional photos, interviews, and detailed analysis are available on SouthReport.
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