The Fight for Recognition and Better Working Conditions

Public health in Mozambique is about to face a significant new challenge, with health professionals announcing a strike scheduled for 31 March 2025. The move was declared by the Association of Health Professionals and Solidarity of Mozambique (APSUM), which highlights the growing dissatisfaction among health workers regarding the government’s lack of attention to their demands. The current situation raises concerns not only for professionals, but also for the population that depends on health services.

The main reasons that led health professionals to consider striking include:

- Lack of Recognition: Professionals feel ignored in the planning and implementation of the new Government’s health policies. The programme for the first 100 days of government seemed to fail to take into account the needs and voices of those directly involved in the health system.

-Unmet demands: Among the demands presented are improvements in working conditions, salary increases, provision of adequate equipment and more resources for public health. The lack of response to these requests has generated a growing sense of frustration.

- Working Conditions: Many professionals report that the conditions in which they work are precarious, with a lack of materials and adequate infrastructure to provide quality care to patients. This situation not only compromises the health of citizens, but also the morale and motivation of health workers.

The strike, if carried out, could have a severe impact on several levels:

- Healthcare: A shutdown could result in a collapse in healthcare services, affecting patients who rely on regular treatments, surgeries and emergency care. Public healthcare is already facing significant challenges, and a strike could make the situation even worse.

- Population Health: With the strike, the population may face difficulties in accessing basic health services, which may lead to an increase in cases of untreated diseases and health complications that could be avoided.

- Confidence in the Health System: A strike can also shake the population's confidence in the public health system, leading to a feeling of insecurity regarding the services provided.

To date, the government's response to the demands of health professionals has been considered insufficient. APSUM leaders have called meetings and attempted to establish a dialogue, but the lack of a clear commitment from the government has generated discontent.

The population expects the Government to meet the demands of health professionals, recognizing the importance of their work and the need to guarantee quality health services.

Time is running out, as the deadline to meet the demands is March 30, 2025. If the Government does not take concrete measures by that date, a strike will become inevitable.

The plight of health workers in Mozambique highlights the importance of an open and effective dialogue between the government and health workers. The mobilization of health workers is a call to action, not only to ensure that their demands are heard, but also to seek solutions that will improve public health in the country. What unfolds in the coming days will be crucial in determining the future of Mozambique’s health system and the quality of life of its citizens. The government’s commitment to addressing these demands can be a vital step in building a stronger and more effective health system.