Mudenda urges Zimbabweans abroad to stay legal

Zimbabweans living abroad must ensure they have proper documentation to stay legally in foreign countries, Parliament Speaker Jacob Mudenda has said, responding to concerns over access to health care in South Africa.

The issue was raised during a Question-and-Answer session in Parliament this week by Mbizo MP Corban Madzivanyika of the opposition Citizen Coalition for Change (CCC), who highlighted xenophobic incidents where Zimbabweans were reportedly denied medical treatment.

"We have a situation where Zimbabwean citizens living in South Africa illegally are being denied the right to seek medical assistance in case of illness," Madzivanyika said.

Mudenda responded that it was impractical to provide medical facilities at embassies for individuals staying illegally abroad.

"How can we have such facilities for illegal people? No, they must follow the law. We have borders where they can get proper papers to enter South Africa or any other country. Entertaining illegal people who enjoy illegalities is not the right thing," he said.

Health and Child Care Deputy Minister Sleiman Kwidini added that the matter required a holistic, cooperative approach between governments. He stressed that, in principle, no one should be denied health care.

"In humanity cases, if someone is sick, there is no way one can be denied access to health because health is key to everyone," Kwidini said.

He noted that some restrictions arose from xenophobic sentiments linked to groups such as Dudula in South Africa, as local citizens allege foreigners are taking jobs and resources. Kwidini, however, said most Zimbabweans contribute positively to South Africa's economy.

"We also encourage Zimbabweans to travel to South Africa legally. Passport offices exist to ensure citizens are properly documented so they can access services legally, including health care," he added.

Meanwhile, the South African government extended the validity of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) to thousands of Zimbabweans whose permits had expired.

"I have decided to extend the validity of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEP) until May 28, 2027," said South African Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber in an official Gazette.

The extension provides relief to Zimbabweans living in South Africa while highlighting the importance of legal documentation for protection and access to essential services.