Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora urged striking nurses to return to work and allow engagement. He said this would create space for “constructive dialogue” between the parties.
The strike began on Monday, 20 April, and lasted three days. Nurses protested against poor salaries and working conditions. As a result, services at major public hospitals were disrupted.
At Sally Mugabe Hospital, nurses demonstrated earlier before leaving. Patients remained uncertain as services stalled.
Meanwhile, at Parirenyatwa Hospital, nurses gathered quietly in small groups. Ward activity declined significantly during the day.
Widespread Strike Over Pay Dispute
Reports from the Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) confirmed wider participation. Nurses at United Bulawayo Hospitals also joined the protests. Police later dispersed the gathering.
Nurses rejected a US$30 salary increment for April. They expected earnings closer to US$600 per month.
Earlier, ZINA had notified the government through the Health Services Commission (HSC). They outlined grievances over salaries and conditions.
Initially, the strike was planned for 15 April.
Authorities reportedly promised salaries near US$600. However, nurses received a smaller increase in local currency on 14 April. Consequently, the union issued a fresh 48-hour notice and proceeded with the strike.
Government Response and Appeal
Mombeshora announced an urgent meeting between key stakeholders. The Health Apex Council and the Health Services Commission attended.
“The Ministry of Health and Child Care acknowledges receipt of the concerns raised by nurses’ representatives through the Zimbabwe Nurses Association following reports of withdrawal of services at some isolated health institutions,” said Mombeshora.
“Government recognises the importance of these concerns and reaffirms its commitment to continued engagement through the appropriate channels.
“In this regard, an extraordinary technical meeting has been convened between the Health Apex Panel and the Health Services Commission.
“Nonetheless, processes are underway to review the concerns in a structured and responsible manner, guided by the need to balance the delivery of critical health services with the welfare of health workers.
“The Government of Zimbabwe, led by His Excellency Dr E.D. Mnangagwa, remains committed to addressing issues that affect the well-being of its citizens.
“The Ministry, therefore, appeals to these health workers who have withdrawn their services to suspend the industrial action and allow space for constructive dialogue and orderly engagement in the best interests of the patients and the nation at large.”
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