Zimbabweans lead number of foreign nationals in SA's public service

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Zimbabweans make up the biggest share of foreign nationals working in South Africa’s government, according to the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA).

The department has raised concerns about their significant presence, particularly in the health and education sectors.

During a briefing to its portfolio committee on 19 February 2025, as reported by The Citizen, DPSA provided a detailed breakdown of foreign nationals working in government departments – particularly in health and education sectors – and the policy considerations surrounding their employment.

ZIMBABWEANS IN SOUTH AFRICA’S GOVERNMENT SECTORS

The overall number of foreign employees in government departments has decreased since 2024. As of 2025, there are 5,779 foreign nationals employed, down from 6,220 in September 2024. Zimbabweans account for the largest proportion, with 2,172 individuals currently holding positions in government.

Zimbabweans are followed by Congolese nationals, who number 755, while Indians and Nigerians hold 383 and 367 positions, respectively. Additionally, there are 265 Cubans employed in various government roles.

Was The Employment Of Foreign Nationals Fairly Done?

The department emphasised that employing foreign nationals did not displace local workers. It explained that the appointment process for foreign nationals in the public service is highly regulated. Multiple departments participated to ensure national security, legal compliance, fiscal responsibility, and workforce protection.

According to the DPSA, Home Affairs is responsible for enforcing documentary compliance, State Security conducts risk assessments and clearances, and National Treasury regulates salaries. The DPSA further clarified that all positions filled were advertised twice and that head-hunting was considered before appointing foreigners, who were given a maximum three-year contract.

The Hiring of Zimbabwean Nationals in SA

The Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) recently fined 68 employers R680,000 for hiring undocumented foreign nationals without valid work permits.

The crackdown follows increased scrutiny of foreign workers. It comes after the arrest of a Zimbabwean man who allegedly secured a top South African job with fraudulent documents.

The arrest has sparked debates about foreign nationals’ employment. Some South Africans have claimed on social media that many foreigners use fake credentials to get high-profile jobs, sidelining locals. This has led to calls for stronger enforcement of immigration and labour laws.