Mozambique: Medical workers protest in Maputo on Aug. 5 amid ongoing strike /update 2

Event

Doctors represented by the Mozambican Medical Association (AMM) plan to protest in Maputo on Aug. 5; the action coincides with an ongoing nationwide strike (through Aug. 21). Their demands include higher wages and an end to the shortage of drugs and surgical materials; the precise protest route is unclear, but will likely occur in central Maputo.

Increased security and localized restrictions are likely near the protest in Maputo on Aug. 5. Localized transport disruptions are likely in the affected area; violence is unlikely, but low-level scuffles are possible if demonstrators are overly disruptive or engage in acts of public violence. Further protests are likely nationwide through Aug. 21. Any protests could result in a wider observance of the strike and cause further service delays in medical and health services.

Context

The ongoing strike action follows a series of similar actions that began in November 2022, when negotiations with the government collapsed. The government had then successfully lobbied the AMM to cancel the strike over the health risks posed by the closing of medical facilities and had signed an agreement with medical professionals in February 2023. As of early August, the strike has reportedly caused severe shortages and delays to medical services in public hospitals.

Advice

Confirm medical appointments as a precaution. Plan for service delays; if possible, contact facilities in advance for information about wait times, which could vary. Avoid any protests as a standard precaution. Plan for some road travel delays and increased security measures in Maputo Aug. 5 and on any additional protest date. Heed the instructions of local security personnel.