Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi has criticized Operation Dudula and similar groups for preventing foreign nationals from accessing public healthcare facilities, emphasizing that his department cannot—and will not—discriminate based on nationality.
Speaking on the matter, Motsoaledi revealed that he had engaged with Operation Dudula members, explaining that the Health Ministry is not responsible for immigration enforcement. “It is impossible for my ministry to differentiate foreign nationals from citizens,” he stated, clarifying that such matters fall under Home Affairs. He urged the group to operate within the law.
The Health Department has strongly condemned recent actions by Operation Dudula and other civic organizations barring foreigners from receiving medical care. Motsoaledi stressed that healthcare facilities are obligated to treat all patients, regardless of their immigration status.
“I took them through the immigration process and told them they might be addressing a legitimate concern but using the wrong means,” he said. “In health, we treat everybody who is sick. They can’t expect us to turn people away based on nationality—that’s not allowed in healthcare anywhere.”
Clarifying Misconceptions About Free Healthcare
Motsoaledi also addressed misconceptions about free healthcare in South Africa, noting that it is not universally free. “There’s a belief that healthcare here is free for everyone, but that’s not true,” he said.
He explained that free healthcare is only guaranteed for pregnant women and children under six, a policy introduced by former President Nelson Mandela in 1995. Other patients, including foreign nationals, are charged for services—unless it’s an emergency.
“If someone arrives at a hospital without money in an emergency, they will be treated. Refusing care would lead to legal action against the department,” he warned.
Calls for Lawful Action
Motsoaledi reiterated that while concerns over immigration and healthcare resources may be valid, vigilante actions are unacceptable. He called on Operation Dudula to direct their grievances to the appropriate authorities rather than obstructing access to medical services.
The minister’s remarks come amid rising tensions over immigration and public service access, with advocacy groups accusing Operation Dudula of xenophobic tactics. The government maintains that while immigration enforcement is necessary, healthcare must remain a universal right.