By Patience
NURSES across Zimbabwe have threatened to go on a two-day nationwide strike from April 15 to 17 over low salaries and unresolved grievances.
This is despite a recent government pay increase for civil servants.
In a letter dated March 26, the Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) notified the Health Service Commission that all nurses under its membership will withdraw their services during the period.
The strike comes after the Government began paying revised salaries, with the lowest-paid civil servants now earning up to US$375. Reports indicate that payments started on Tuesday, with uniformed forces among the first to benefit as the new structure is rolled out.
But the nurses say the actual increment component is about RTGS 1,000, roughly US$30, which they argue is too low and does not match the rising cost of living.
ZINA said their concerns remain unresolved despite the adjustment.
The strike, if carried out,will affect public hospitals and clinics across the country.
The association said it issued the notice in terms of the Health Service Act. Although the law requires 48 hours’ notice, nurses extended the period to allow time for negotiations. The notice runs until April 14.
They said there has been no meaningful progress in talks and warned they will proceed with the strike if their demands are not met before the deadline.
Civil servants in Zimbabwe have long complained about low pay and are pushing for salaries in United States dollars to cushion themselves against inflation.