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Nurses in Zimbabwe have embarked on a three-day strike beginning on Monday, raising concerns about further strain on the country’s already fragile public health system
According to Zimbabwe Nurses Association president Enock Dongo, nurses decided to go on a strike, rejecting the government’s US$30 salary increment, far below the expected US$600.
The union has linked the worsening situation to broader economic pressures, including increased fuel prices that have pushed up transport and commodity costs. With petrol prices exceeding $2 per litre, many healthcare workers are reportedly struggling to afford daily commutes, with some walking long distances to work.
“There is a deadlock with the employer, since time immemorial, we have tried to engage the employer in terms of salary and other remunerations, but it has been unsuccessful”, said one of the nurses on strike.
Among its key demands are a cost-of-living adjustment, a comprehensive review of salary structures, and an update to health sector allowances, which it says have not kept pace with inflation.
Nurses in Zimbabwe previously earned $290 and ZiG3,500 before the government added ZiG1,500 to their April salaries, an improvement of about $46.
“We’re walking dead,” says another nurse who did not want to be identified for security reasons. “Pay day brings headaches, It’s our last option doing demonstrations because we want to be at work treating our fellow citizens and relatives.” She added.
If the resolution is not reached, the strike will further strain Zimbabwe’s already fragile health care system.
The new strike dates replace the original April 15-17 window.
