Healthcare workers at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital protested against the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society due to high food prices and poor working conditions, citing inadequate infrastructure such as lack of electricity and running water. They demand improvements and questioned the ZRCS’s ability to serve effectively amid current financial difficulties.
Healthcare workers at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare staged a protest on Monday against the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society (ZRCS), citing inadequate service at its kiosk. They expressed concerns regarding poor working conditions impacting operations at the hospital, emphasizing the lack of basic necessities like electricity and running water, which hampers their ability to care for patients effectively.
During the protest, dozens of nurses held placards announcing slogans such as “No Water, No Power, No Care!” and “Our Patients Deserve Better.” Additionally, they voiced dissatisfaction about the high prices of food at the ZRCS kiosk and its substandard service, stating it was unaffordable for many patients and staff alike.
The nurses contended that the kiosk cashiers only accepting US dollars created further inconveniences for hospital staff and patients needing to purchase food. They highlighted, “The food at the Red Cross Kiosk is very expensive and not affordable for many of us as well as patients and ordinary people.”
Elias Hwenga, ZRCS secretary-general, refrained from commenting directly on the protest. He did note that the canteen offers excellent and affordable services. Furthermore, he challenged the validity of the claims regarding deteriorating standards and mentioned that the organization is currently facing significant financial difficulties, with a US$2 million debt.
Despite the protests and grievances, Hwenga dismissed the claims made by the nurses as unfounded. He stated that ZRCS operates as an auxiliary to the government per the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society Act of 1981, with branches throughout the country and as part of the global Red Cross movement in 189 nations.
The protest by healthcare workers at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital underscores critical concerns over the services offered by the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society. The issues of high food prices and poor working conditions highlighted by the nurses call for immediate attention. The ZRCS must address these grievances to fulfill its humanitarian obligations effectively and regain the trust of hospital staff and patients alike.
Original Source: www.newsday.co.zw
