Patriotic Alliance leader and Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has urged the South African government to prohibit illegal foreigners from accessing medical care in public hospitals. His remarks follow the U.S. government’s decision to cut USAID funding to South Africa.
During a parliamentary debate, McKenzie argued that the 17% reduction in funding necessitates prioritizing South African citizens. He specifically referenced the loss of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which he said would worsen the country’s healthcare crisis.
“I ask the president of this country: can we stop giving medical help to illegal foreigners? They should be banned from our hospitals and seek care in their own countries,” McKenzie stated.
The USAID funding cut has intensified diplomatic tensions between South Africa and the U.S., with some blaming local advocacy group AfriForum for influencing Washington’s decision. AfriForum and the Solidarity movement recently engaged with U.S. officials, a move criticized by President Cyril Ramaphosa and other leaders.
McKenzie called on Ramaphosa to mend ties with U.S. President Donald Trump, warning that strained relations could have dire consequences. “America needs South Africa, and South Africa needs America. If we don’t work together, both will lose, but South Africa will suffer more,” he said.
The funding cut has already led to job losses, with an estimated 15,000 employees affected. McKenzie challenged MPs opposing improved U.S. relations to propose alternative solutions. “Come here with a plan, don’t just argue. People are losing jobs, and HIV/AIDS will claim more lives without PEPFAR support,” he said.
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has acknowledged the financial gap left by the funding cut, stating that the government alone cannot cover the shortfall. Meanwhile, global organizations are exploring alternative funding solutions to sustain critical health programs.
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