The incident began when a video of a nurse from Midrand Halfway Clinic was posted on a Zimbabwean Crime Watch page on X (Twitter). The video, aimed at shaming her, captured a moment in an overstretched healthcare system where she was trying to manage patients under immense pressure. Unfortunately, instead of understanding the context, the nurse became the target of severe online bullying, primarily from foreign nationals who disrespected her dignity and professionalism.
This situation has highlighted the ongoing abuse faced by South Africa’s healthcare workers, many of whom work under unbearable conditions in under-resourced facilities. The nurse’s online shaming sparked outrage among South Africans, and many stood in solidarity to defend her.
In response, Progressive Forces of South Africa (PFSA), in partnership with the Young Nurses Indaba Trade Union (YNITU), took immediate action. We visited the Midrand Halfway Clinic to offer our full support to the nurse and to stand against the growing exploitation and abuse of our healthcare workers. We expressed our solidarity with her and assured her that her efforts were not in vain.
We also made it clear that this incident reflects a broader issue of illegal foreign nationals placing additional strain on South Africa’s healthcare system, often at the expense of our citizens. This situation has become a rallying point for a national call to protect South Africa’s public resources and prioritize the well-being of our citizens and healthcare workers.
Going forward, PFSA is committed to:
•Advocating for better protection of healthcare workers from online and in-person abuse.
•Collaborating with stakeholders to ensure our healthcare system serves South Africans first.
•Raising awareness about the exploitation of our healthcare systems by illegal foreigners and the resulting strain on resources.
•Providing platforms for healthcare workers to report abuse and receive support when faced with challenging situations.
We remain steadfast in our mission to ensure that South Africa’s healthcare workers, who are the backbone of our nation, receive the respect, support, and protection they deserve.
Progressive Forces of South Africa
“Together, we defend our people and protect our nation.”