By Staff Writer
PATIENTS were thrown into a desperation situation with many lying unattended in corridors and outside Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals premises in Harare, Monday, after nurses went ahead with their industrial action as promised.
The sector’s workers are demanding an upward review of their salaries in US$ terms after enduring incomes which are way below the Poverty Datum Line.
The prices of fuel and other basic commodities have risen sharply in the last months leaving many citizens desperate and struggling to make ends meet.
The sector’s workers are earning around ZW$18 000 which is equivalent to US$53,00 on the official foreign exchange market above the US$175 allowances, which are however not factored in when pensions are paid.
The Humanitarian Post observed anti-riot police officers within the referral hospital, amid fears the strike could generate into massive demonstrations.
Nurses were observed standing in small groups, conversing in hushed tones soon after they had delivered a petition to Health Services Board (HSB) offices, alongside junior doctors at the institution.
They held placards bemoaning their working conditions and salaries; sang and marched early morning, before some left for Harare hospital, where similar action was expected.
Health workers, among many other civil servants, are demanding salaries in US dollars and better working conditions. Their Zimbabwe dollar wages have been devalued by ravaging inflation.
Health APEX panel leader Tapiwanashe Kusotera said acting health minister, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga had never addresses their concerns since taking over.
“The reality is that health workers are underpaid. The workers are struggling to make ends meet,” said Kusotera.
