South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has sparked controversy after suggesting that foreign nationals—whom he referred to using the slang term “Zai Zai”—should be excluded from receiving free medical treatment in public hospitals.
In a public statement aimed at President Cyril Ramaphosa, McKenzie pushed for stricter immigration and public service policies, arguing that the country’s overburdened healthcare system should prioritize South African citizens. His comments come amid ongoing debates over immigration, service delivery, and the rights of undocumented migrants.
McKenzie, known for his divisive rhetoric, claimed that foreign nationals are placing excessive strain on public healthcare. “We cannot continue to offer free healthcare to undocumented foreigners while South Africans endure long queues and shortages,” he said.
While he did not specify which groups he was targeting, the term “Zai Zai” is widely considered derogatory and is often directed at migrants from other African countries, particularly Zimbabwe. His remarks have drawn sharp criticism, with opponents calling them inflammatory and discriminatory.
Minister Gayton Mckenzie suggests to President Cyril Ramaphosa that the Zai zai should be banned from receiving free medical treatment from South African🇿🇦 Government Healthcare facilities. pic.twitter.com/x6PjdbyOVM
— Yaya Libram🇿🇦 (@Sello_Libram) May 31, 2025
Human rights groups and migrant advocates have condemned the proposal, emphasizing that healthcare is a fundamental human right. “This rhetoric puts lives at risk and deepens prejudice against marginalized communities,” said a representative from Lawyers for Human Rights.
The Department of Health has not yet officially responded, but past policy has upheld that public hospitals must provide emergency care to all individuals, in line with constitutional and humanitarian obligations.
Political analysts suggest McKenzie’s comments may be an attempt to rally nationalist support ahead of upcoming elections. However, critics warn that such rhetoric could incite xenophobic tensions and harm regional relations.
President Ramaphosa has remained silent on the matter, but the issue is expected to feature in broader discussions about immigration, public services, and social cohesion.
As the debate continues, South Africa remains divided on how to reconcile the rights of non-citizens with the urgent needs of its own population—particularly in sectors already struggling with high demand and limited resources.
