Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie has called for undocumented foreigners to be denied access to public healthcare in South Africa, following the withdrawal of USAID-funded health programmes by US President Donald Trump.
Among the affected programmes is the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which McKenzie noted has already resulted in a 17% funding cut.
During a recent parliamentary debate, McKenzie linked the healthcare strain to broader national issues, including high unemployment among local medical graduates and the ongoing HIV/AIDS crisis.
He argued that the country could no longer afford to extend medical services to those in the country illegally, especially in the face of diminishing foreign support.
McKenzie appealed to President Cyril Ramaphosa to respond urgently to the aid reduction, suggesting that South Africa must take a firm stance to prioritise its citizens.
He also underscored the imbalance between the two nations’ medical sectors, pointing out that while the United States has sufficient healthcare personnel, many qualified South Africans remain without work.
According to McKenzie, the loss of American support could have far-reaching consequences, including a worsening of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the potential loss of up to 230,000 jobs linked to the health sector.
He stressed that while some South Africans may be critical of US foreign policy, the focus should remain on preserving beneficial partnerships and seeking constructive dialogue.
Criticism was also levelled at individuals who, after visiting the US, return home to publicly condemn South Africa’s relationship with the country without offering meaningful solutions.
McKenzie encouraged leaders and citizens alike to adopt a solution-oriented approach, especially given the current inability to employ many local doctors.
Reiterating his call for change, the minister advocated for a policy shift that would see undocumented migrants barred from public hospitals.
He also urged South Africa’s leadership to pursue diplomatic engagement with the US to restore funding and strengthen bilateral cooperation.
McKenzie concluded by highlighting the mutual benefits of a strong partnership between the two nations and emphasised the need for informed and united action in addressing the country’s healthcare challenges.
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