Undocumented South Africans - a silent crisis that demands attention, says Minister Schreiber

EARLIER this year, Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber sounded the alarm on what he described as a ‘silent crisis’ gripping the country, as millions of South Africans continue to live without identity documents.

- XOLILE MTEMBU

The matter has become more urgent as anti-immigrant groups like Operation Dudula and the March and March Movement have been demanding that those seeking healthcare provide documentation before entering public facilities.

“I say there is a silent crisis in the country of undocumented South Africans. There are children who are going to school who didn't have their birth registered,” Schreiber told the National Council of Provinces.

The minister warned that undocumented children are being denied access to essential rights such as education, healthcare, and social grants.