DRC: Nationwide doctor strike launched April 23

Event

The doctors’ union SYNAMED launched an indefinite nationwide strike on Monday, April 23. As such, major medical service disruptions are expected throughout the DRC until the striking doctors reach an agreement with the government. A minimum service will be provided for hospitalized patients. However, only two public hospitals in the capital Kinshasa are accepting new emergency cases. Related demonstrations in the coming days and weeks cannot be ruled out.

Context

SYNAMED launched the strike to demand higher salaries, the payment of bonuses, and improved working conditions, as well as to demand that points laid out in an agreement signed with the government in September 2017 be enacted.

Advice

Individuals in Democratic Republic of Congo should be prepared for limited access to healthcare at public institutions and seek care at private institutions as necessary. Furthermore, individuals are advised to avoid any and all demonstrations, as violence cannot be ruled out.