Zim medics become lifeline for migrants in South Africa

When a bucket of hot water scalded Susan Chiguvare's feet, her first thought was not the excruciating pain but the fear of seeking medical help in Johannesburg. Like many Zimbabweans living in South Africa, Chiguvare has witnessed the public humiliation and forced removals carried out by vigilante groups such as Operation Dudula, which have made hospitals no-go zones for migrants.

"I was really scared of going to a Johannesburg hospital. The thought of being filmed and dragged out by Operation Dudula members was terrifying," Chiguvare said. She even considered returning to Zimbabwe for treatment. Fortunately, her brother connected her with a network of Zimbabwean doctors and nurses operating underground. With their assistance, Chiguvare received treatment from a registered nurse known as "Sister Gugu," and within weeks, her wounds began to heal. Two months later, she had fully recovered and returned to work.

The network, known as the Tele Health Programme, comprises 41 Zimbabwean medical professionals who provide virtual consultations and emergency house calls across Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. Since its inception, the group has assisted more than 2,000 Zimbabweans who have avoided public hospitals for fear of xenophobic attacks.

"When Operation Dudula began targeting what they called illegal foreigners, we decided to step in and assist our fellow Zimbabweans," said registered nurse Butholezwe Nyathi. "We took an oath to save lives, and we couldn't just watch while people suffered in silence."

The programme provides care for patients with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and epilepsy. It also extends to more acute medical emergencies, including asthma attacks, heart problems, and seizures. Registered nurse Bekithemba Ndlovu, who specialises in HIV treatment, noted that the network has also assisted 18 women with childbirth, working alongside South African midwives to ensure safe deliveries.

Operating without a physical facility, the Tele Health Programme relies on WhatsApp and other digital platforms to coordinate care while also conducting in-person visits for serious emergencies. Despite concerns from some patients who initially fear it may be a scam, the network has gained credibility through consistent and professional service.

Edward Muchengeti, a Bulawayo businessman and member of the programme, highlighted its impact. His own relative, burnt by boiling water, received timely treatment through the initiative and is now fully recovered.

Looking ahead, the Tele Health Programme aims to expand its reach by partnering with organisations such as Doctors Without Borders to continue supporting Zimbabweans in South Africa who face barriers to accessing healthcare.

"The fear of hospitals shouldn't mean fear of life-saving treatment," Nyathi said. "We are committed to being there for our people, wherever they are."