Zimbabwe nurses withdraw services over US$30 salary increase
Public hospitals disrupted as nurses reject government pay offer they say falls short of expected US$600 monthly wage.
Zimbabwe nurses withdraw services over US$30 salary increase
Public hospitals disrupted as nurses reject government pay offer they say falls short of expected US$600 monthly wage.
Nurses across Zimbabwe withdrew their services this week after receiving what they described as an inadequate salary increase, leaving patients stranded at major public hospitals.1
On Monday, nurses at Sally Mugabe Hospital in Harare staged demonstrations before leaving their posts, while activity at Parirenyatwa Hospital dropped significantly as some nurses sat in small groups outside the wards.1 At United Bulawayo Hospitals, police were called to disperse protesting nurses, according to the Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA).1
The industrial action follows a US$30 salary increment for April that nurses said was far below their expectation of around US$600 per month.1 ZINA said its members had resolved to proceed with a nationwide shutdown after determining the latest salary review "was only done as a token and not seriously meant to address the plight of nurses".1
The nurses had initially issued a strike notice to the government through the Health Service Commission, with the action originally scheduled to begin on 15 April.1 Nurses said they were shocked to receive only a modest increase paid in local currency after authorities reportedly promised to raise salaries to about US$600 during prior engagements.1
Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora called on striking nurses to return to work and allow space for dialogue.2 Speaking to journalists in Harare, Mombeshora said the government recognised the importance of the concerns and reaffirmed its commitment to continued engagement through appropriate channels.2
An urgent meeting has been convened between the Health Apex Panel and the Health Services Commission to address the issues.2 Mombeshora said the concerns would be reviewed "in a structured and responsible manner", balancing the need to maintain essential health services with improving conditions for workers.2
The strike was expected to continue for at least two more days.1