Zimbabwean migrants in South Africa face health‑care denial and HIV treatment risks

Over 100,000 Zimbabwean citizens have returned from South Africa in a single month amid xenophobic attacks and tightened enforcement of Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEP). Health officials warn this mass movement could trigger a public‑health crisis, particularly for people living with HIV.

Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora said more than 99,000 returnees have been screened at border posts and that emergency medication clinics have been established at the borders. However, long‑term antiretroviral therapy cannot start immediately because baseline assessments such as viral‑load tests are required.

In the Limpopo town of Louis Trichardt, clinics have begun refusing Zimbabwean permit holders their chronic medication, telling patients the visit may be their last. Patients with HIV, hypertension and diabetes report being turned away after extensive document checks.

The situation is linked to the expiry of ZEP permits, unexplained bank‑account freezes and rising anti‑immigrant pressure. NGOs and legislators warn that interruptions in treatment could undermine Zimbabwe’s progress in combating HIV and other chronic diseases.