The National Federation of Health Sector Unions (FNSS) is speaking out against a controversial decision by the Ministry of Health. The union denounces the exclusive allocation of certain bonuses to doctors, leaving out other healthcare workers.

Info SOS Médias Burundi

This is a blatant injustice, according to the union, which fuels tensions in a sector already under pressure.

A decision that divides medical staff

At a press conference held in Bujumbura, Mélance Hakizimana, chairperson of the FNSS, expressed his outrage at this measure, which she considers discriminatory. « It is inconceivable that only doctors should benefit from these allowances when we all work together under difficult conditions, » he declared, pointing to a decision that weakens the unity of the medical profession.

At the heart of the controversy are the separation and stabilization allowances, recently granted only to doctors by a joint order of the Minister of Health and the Minister of Finance. For the FNSS, this policy creates a divide within the healthcare workforce, where nurses, nursing assistants, and hospital technicians feel they are being left behind.

Non-existent dialogue with the authorities

In addition to the perceived injustice in the allocation of bonuses, the FNSS criticizes the lack of consultation with the government. According to Mélance Hakizimana, requests for a meeting with the Minister of Health remain unanswered, which fuels the frustration of medical staff.

« We have tried to launch a dialogue, but we are ignored. This contemptuous attitude strongly aggravates the anger of healthcare workers,” he denounced.

Faced with this situation, the FNSS demands an immediate review of the bonus award criteria and calls for fair treatment for all healthcare workers.

A tense social climate

This case comes at a time when the healthcare sector is facing major challenges, including precarious working conditions and the high cost of living.

The FNSS warns of a possible escalation of tensions if no solution is found.

“We call on the government to act quickly to restore justice. Without this, we do not rule out stronger action,” warned Hakizimana, suggesting that strikes could be considered.

As the adoption of the next budget approaches, the FNSS urges the authorities to review their bonus policy to avoid a social crisis in an already weakened sector. It remains to be seen whether the government will agree to listen to the demands of healthcare workers before a large-scale mobilization begins.

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A Bujumbura resident gets tested as part of a campaign to combat the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic ©️ SOS Médias Burundi