The administrative and nursing staff of the health zone of Mushie, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), have been on dry strike since May 29 to protest against the non-payment of their salaries for the months of May and April by the “FEBEDES” agency. This strike is indefinite and the president of the union is urging both categories of workers to “stay at home until further notice”.
The strikers demand pay for these two months as well as the termination of the pay contract signed with the FEBEDES agency. They sent a memorandum to Governor Rita Bola demanding their satisfaction.
This situation is worrying because it highlights the vulnerability of the economic situation of health care workers. It can also affect the quality of health care provided to the community. The strike in Mushie should therefore be resolved diligently to avoid any escalation or negative repercussions on the health of the population.
In addition, the DRC faces other challenges such as political tensions, persistent insecurity in certain regions and outdated infrastructure, as evidenced by the deterioration of the roadways in Kinshasa. However, the country’s government has also launched investment projects aimed at boosting the oil industry and it encourages the participation of foreign investors in its business sectors.
BRICS foreign ministers also call for UN reform at their latest meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa. These signals show that the country is looking for solutions to improve its economy and promote political and social stability.
Nevertheless, recent political events, such as the arrest of Salomon Kalonda, have created uncertainty about the political and economic future of the DRC. It is therefore important that the various political actors work together to resolve these challenges and create an enabling environment for the development of the country.
In sum, the strike situation of health workers in Mushie in the DRC is a source of concern for the quality of health care for the populations. However, the DRC is engaged in actions aimed at stimulating its economy, improving infrastructure, and fostering political and social stability.