Key facts
- Health workers in Congo's Ebola outbreak are striking due to delayed payments and insufficient protective gear.
- The outbreak has resulted in 1,708 recorded cases and 580 deaths.
- Some treatment centers are operating at near-full capacity.
- Workers have not been paid wages and bonuses since the outbreak was declared on May 15.
- The closure of Bunia airport is cited as a reason for payment delays.
Health workers at the epicenter of Congo’s Ebola outbreak have begun striking over delayed payments and a lack of protective gear, potentially hindering efforts to control the rapidly spreading disease. In Ituri province, the most affected region, healthcare professionals and other front-line responders have not received wages and bonuses since the outbreak was declared on May 15.
Dr. Biensi Kano, a member of the epidemiological surveillance committee, stated that workers have been demanding payment since the outbreak began, highlighting that the non-payment of benefits causes significant socio-economic difficulties. The latest government data indicates 1,708 recorded cases, including 580 deaths, with the first month of this outbreak being the worst on record. The strike coincides with the start of clinical trials for the Bundibugyo virus responsible for the current outbreak.
According to Akilimali Pierre, incident manager at Congo’s National Institute of Public Health, the closure of Bunia airport is impacting the flow of funds and contributing to payment delays. Some workers organized a protest outside the Rwampara Ebola treatment center, setting tires ablaze, before police intervened. Health workers also face challenges such as attacks from residents and skepticism about the virus.
Dr. Ben Bakule, a community investigator, recounted a near-death experience when attacked by angry youths while tracing contacts. He expressed frustration, stating, "We risk dying for nothing." Despite assurances from Congo’s Minister of Health, Roger Kamba, that funds were available for response teams, front-line workers report a different reality. Dr. Ghislain Maneba, an epidemiologist, questioned how their dedication was being repaid.
The strike has raised concerns among residents in Ituri, who are already facing economic hardship due to outbreak containment measures. Bunia resident Anifa Kito voiced fears that faltering response efforts would further complicate daily life and urged authorities to resolve the situation promptly.