Lesotho Cabinet Ministers to Engage with South African Counterparts Over Healthcare Access
The Migrant Workers Association of Lesotho has raised concerns about the denial of medical care to Basotho nationals in South Africa. This issue is seen as a major obstacle in the region’s efforts to combat HIV and other public health challenges. The association has urged the Lesotho government to take immediate action to address this problem.
Denial of Healthcare Services
The association has condemned the refusal to provide healthcare services to Basotho migrants, stating that it violates their human rights and international law. In a statement, the executive director of the association, Lerato Nkhetše, highlighted that many Basotho individuals are being blocked from accessing medical care at clinics and hospitals unless they present South African IDs. This situation is particularly prevalent in Gauteng, where reports indicate that migrants are being denied treatment.
Nkhetše shared that the association received over 60 reports from members who were turned away from clinics and hospitals, mainly in Soweto. These incidents have been reported through WhatsApp groups, indicating a widespread issue that requires urgent attention.
Impact on Women and Public Health
Women are disproportionately affected by this issue, as they constitute the majority of Basotho migrants in South Africa and are more likely to seek medical services. The denial of healthcare not only harms individuals but also undermines fundamental principles of human dignity and equality.
Nkhetše called for investigations into these violations, urging authorities in both Lesotho and South Africa to hold those responsible accountable and ensure equitable access to healthcare for all Basotho living in South Africa.
Rejection of Urgent Debate in Lesotho Parliament
Despite the efforts of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and various human rights organizations to condemn xenophobic actions, Nkhetše expressed disappointment with Lesotho’s Parliament. A request for an urgent debate on the issue was rejected, with the Speaker of the National Assembly, Tlohang Sekhamane, arguing that allowing the request without evidence would "set a bad precedent."
Nkhetše questioned what evidence is needed when the situation is widely reported in the media, with videos and reports of non-South Africans being expelled from clinics. He emphasized the need for the Lesotho government to act urgently, suggesting that embassies and consulates in South Africa should be equipped with permanent clinics for Basotho citizens.
Potential Solutions and Concerns
Nkhetše warned that the current situation could seriously undermine Lesotho's efforts to combat HIV and other public health crises. He noted that many clinics in Lesotho are reporting rising numbers of defaulters because patients collect medication in South Africa. If they are turned away there, they stop taking their medication.
He proposed that if riots like those led by Operation Dudula occur, Basotho people would have a place to go for healthcare, even if the consulates are far away.
Government Response and Calls for Action
Last week, Minister of Communications Nthati Moorosi confirmed that the issue had reached the highest levels of government. She stated that the cabinet had instructed the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Home Affairs to initiate negotiations with their South African counterparts.
Moorosi noted that South Africa recently agreed to allow Basotho to stay in the country for up to 90 days. She emphasized that if Basotho citizens are given permission to be in South Africa lawfully, they must also have access to essential services like healthcare.
She called for an immediate end to discriminatory practices in South African health facilities, reiterating that access to healthcare is a human right, wherever you are.