Title: Strike in the health sector in the DRC: MPs call on the government
Introduction :
The strike in the health sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is the subject of questioning within the National Assembly. National deputy Ntumba Ciabola Bintou, elected from Katanda in the province of Kasai Oriental, submitted a written question addressed to three members of the government. This action aims to obtain explanations for the non-execution of the agreements concluded between the government and the union bench in the health sector, thus provoking a dry strike of non-medical and administrative professionals since August 22, 2023. In this article, we We will explore the questions raised by the MP and the importance of resolving this crisis to guarantee the success of the Universal Health Coverage program of the Head of State, Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi.
The contents of the deposit:
MP Ntumba Ciabola Bintou submitted a written question to the office of the National Assembly, addressed to the Minister of Public Health, the Minister of Finance and the Minister of State, Minister of Budget. This question aims to obtain clarification on the non-execution of the agreements signed with the union bench in Bibwa I, II and III. He requests answers on several points, in particular the non-execution of the additional payroll planned for the second quarter of 2023, the delay in the alignment of the professional risk premium and the administrative situation of non-doctor health professionals.
The issues of the situation:
The strike of non-medical and administrative health professionals has serious repercussions on the health system in the DRC, especially at the time when the Head of State launched the Universal Health Coverage program. It is imperative that the ministers concerned respond to the demands of the strikers in order to guarantee the proper functioning of this program and to support the vision of the People first advocated by President Tshisekedi. Resolving this crisis will ensure better care for pregnant women and their babies, thus contributing to the promotion of the health and well-being of the Congolese population.
Appeal to the Prime Minister:
MP Ntumba Ciabola Bintou also urges the Prime Minister to follow this issue closely and act for its resolution. He underlines the importance of a successful outcome of this situation in order to guarantee the success of the Universal Health Coverage program and to benefit from the contribution of all health professionals, whether they are doctors or not. He insists on the support of all political and administrative actors to respond to the urgent needs of the population in terms of health.
Conclusion :
DRC health sector strike is a major concern that requires urgent government action. The questions asked by MP Ntumba Ciabola Bintou through his written question highlight the non-execution of agreements signed with the health sector union bench and the consequences of this strike on patient care. It is crucial for the government to resolve this crisis in order to guarantee the proper functioning of President Tshisekedi’s Universal Health Coverage program and to meet the health needs of the population. The Prime Minister’s monitoring of this file is essential to ensure a successful outcome and the contribution of all stakeholders concerned.