HARARE – The Government of Zimbabwe, through Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, has articulated its policy on healthcare provision for its citizens residing abroad, stating a primary focus on domestic health initiatives before extending comprehensive medical aid to the diaspora.
This position, outlined during a parliamentary session on Wednesday, initiated a debate among Members of Parliament regarding the state’s responsibilities toward its citizens in foreign lands, particularly those facing challenges accessing medical care in South Africa.
Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Mbizo MP Corban Madzivanyika raised concerns about challenges faced by Zimbabweans in South Africa in accessing basic medical care and inquired about the government’s potential role in covering medical bills for these citizens.
In his response, Ziyambi articulated that the government’s immediate focus is on establishing a National Health Insurance within Zimbabwe, stating, “charity begins at home.”
He indicated that any extension of comprehensive medical aid to citizens who migrated “of their own volition” would be considered only if a “surplus” became available after domestic needs were met.
The Minister clarified that while Zimbabwean diplomatic missions would offer assistance to those facing “dire need and life-threatening condition” to stabilise them for a return to Zimbabwe, the government does not maintain a policy of providing ongoing medical insurance for all citizens living abroad.
Mnangagwa allegedly eyes 2031: Leaked memo reveals plan to…Apr 22, 2025154Zanu PF moves to expel Geza over ‘treasonous’…Feb 4, 202557,667Zanu PF infighting escalates: Ziyambi, Chinamasa clash over…Dec 12, 202413,190Ziyambi admits Zimbabweans do not trust ZiG as currency…Nov 21, 202440,373
Mnangagwa allegedly eyes 2031: Leaked memo reveals plan to…Apr 22, 2025154Zanu PF moves to expel Geza over ‘treasonous’…Feb 4, 202557,667Zanu PF infighting escalates: Ziyambi, Chinamasa clash over…Dec 12, 202413,190Ziyambi admits Zimbabweans do not trust ZiG as currency…Nov 21, 202440,373
Mnangagwa allegedly eyes 2031: Leaked memo reveals plan to…Apr 22, 2025154
Mnangagwa allegedly eyes 2031: Leaked memo reveals plan to…Apr 22, 2025154
Mnangagwa allegedly eyes 2031: Leaked memo reveals plan to…
Zanu PF moves to expel Geza over ‘treasonous’…Feb 4, 202557,667
Zanu PF moves to expel Geza over ‘treasonous’…Feb 4, 202557,667
Zanu PF moves to expel Geza over ‘treasonous’…
Zanu PF infighting escalates: Ziyambi, Chinamasa clash over…Dec 12, 202413,190
Source: Nehandaradio
