The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has confirmed the order for the payment of salaries to address the doctors’ strike, with the disbursement of funds set to begin on Monday.
In an effort to resolve the ongoing issues within the healthcare sector, the government reached a compromise with the doctors’ union. During a meeting held at the Kinshasa Financial Center, the government confirmed the signing of the Electronic Payment Order (EPO) on December 27th. They announced plans to gradually start paying the salaries of healthcare workers and officials from this Monday, December 30th, 2024.
John Senga, a member of the doctors’ union, stated, “The Health Sector Coordination has just been received by the Ministers of Finance, Public Health, and the Deputy Minister of Budget. We have discussed the current issues in the healthcare sector, and as you know, all categories within this sector are awaiting their additional pay. We have received assurances from the ministers that disbursement will begin today and will be done progressively. The central bank will be responsible for transferring funds to different banks in Kinshasa and the provinces.”
Government’s Commitment to Oversight and Transparency
Furthermore, the Congolese government has pledged to make the decree establishing the monitoring commission for the implementation of agreements and the cleaning up of the payroll for healthcare workers available. This move aims to ensure closer monitoring of all commitments made.
The doctors’ union in the Democratic Republic of Congo has reiterated its decision to maintain the strike until the payment is made effectively. It is essential to note that this government decision comes in response to the doctors’ announcement of a total strike across the DRC, except in provinces under a state of siege, such as North Kivu and Ituri.
The commitment from the government to address the doctors’ demands and improve the healthcare sector is a significant step forward in resolving the ongoing crisis. This development brings hope for both healthcare workers and the general population who rely on their services. The transparency and oversight measures put in place demonstrate a willingness to ensure accountability and fairness in the disbursement of funds. As the disbursement process begins, all eyes will be on the government to fulfill its promises and support the healthcare workers who play a vital role in society.