The Mauritanian health sector is facing a growing crisis as payments to healthcare workers have been delayed, with some dating back to the last quarter of 2025. The General Union of Work and Health in Mauritania has warned of a potential explosion in the sector if these payments are not made promptly. The union's warning comes as the government prepares to present its general policy to the National Assembly.
The delayed payments include allowances for remote areas, known as "علاوات البعد", which have not been paid since the fourth quarter of 2025. Additionally, healthcare workers have not received their shift allowances in most hospitals and health centers, and promotions for some nurses to grade "B" have also been delayed. New employees have also joined health centers without receiving their transportation allowances.
The union has called on the Minister of Health to intervene with the General Budget Administration to expedite the processing of these delayed payments. The union's statement highlighted that the situation is not limited to a single facility, with several states expressing their discontent through protest letters. The delayed payments have added to the financial strain on healthcare workers, who are struggling with rising living costs and decreased purchasing power.
The union's warning is linked to the government's current measures to address the rising cost of living, which they believe are insufficient to protect low-income earners. The increase in fuel prices has contributed to the rising cost of living, and the union has urged the government to take concrete actions to mitigate the effects. The situation has sparked concerns about the potential for a major crisis in the health sector if the issues are not addressed.
In response to the union's concerns, the Prime Minister has announced plans to increase salaries and improve pensions, which the union has cautiously welcomed as a potential "glimmer of hope". However, the union has emphasized that this must be accompanied by the settlement of delayed payments. The National Assembly is set to vote on granting confidence to the new government on Monday.
The health sector crisis comes at a critical time, with the government preparing to present its policy to the National Assembly. The situation has sparked concerns about the potential impact on healthcare services and the well-being of healthcare workers. The union's warning has highlighted the need for urgent action to address the delayed payments and prevent a major crisis in the sector.
The government has not yet responded to the union's concerns, but the situation is being closely watched by healthcare workers and the general public. The potential crisis in the health sector has raised concerns about the government's ability to address the needs of its citizens, particularly in the healthcare sector.
Key points
- The Mauritanian health sector is facing a growing crisis due to delayed payments to healthcare workers, including allowances and promotion benefits.
- The General Union of Work and Health in Mauritania has warned of a potential explosion in the sector if these payments are not made promptly.
- The government has announced plans to increase salaries and improve pensions, but the union has emphasized that this must be accompanied by the settlement of delayed payments.
