The Congolese Pharmacists' Union has announced a nationwide strike in the Democratic Republic of the Congo's public sector pharmacies, effective October 6, 2026. The strike is in response to the government's failure to pay the risk allowance to pharmacists, as stipulated by the International Labour Organization. The union's vice-president, Dr. Benjamin Kabwe, stated that the strike will affect public sector pharmacies, potentially impacting the private sector as well.
Dr. Kabwe emphasized that pharmacists play a critical role in ensuring the quality, safety, and proper use of medications. He warned that during the strike, the public should be cautious when accessing medications, as unqualified personnel may handle them. The union is concerned that without proper supervision, medications may pose a risk to public health. Dr. Kabwe also highlighted that pharmacists are responsible for receiving, controlling, conserving, preparing, and dispensing medications.
The union's demands are twofold, covering administrative and financial issues. Administratively, the union is seeking resolution on the admission of pharmacists under the public service statute and promotions to higher grades. The last promotions were in 2002, and some pharmacists have already retired without receiving their due benefits. Financially, the union is pushing for the alignment of pharmacists' salaries with the risk allowance, as mandated by the International Labour Organization.
Dr. Kabwe expressed disappointment that despite repeated appeals to the authorities, particularly the Minister of Health, the issues remain unresolved. He noted that in April 2026, the Minister of Health received a letter from the union, but there has been no written response or acknowledgment. The union is urging the government to address their concerns and restore their rights by the end of 2026.
The strike is expected to have significant implications for public health in the DR Congo. Dr. Kabwe stressed that pharmacists are a crucial link in the medication supply chain, and their role is essential in ensuring the quality and safety of medications. He called on the authorities to take urgent action to address the union's demands and avoid a crisis.
The Congolese government's response to the strike remains unclear. The Minister of Budget had previously acknowledged the pharmacists' concerns and instructed that they be addressed. However, the union claims that the implementation has been unsatisfactory, with only a few pharmacists benefiting from the changes.
The strike by public sector pharmacists in the DR Congo highlights the challenges facing the country's healthcare system. The union's demands are centered on improving working conditions and ensuring that pharmacists are fairly compensated for their critical role in maintaining public health. The outcome of the strike and the government's response will be closely watched by healthcare stakeholders and the general public.
Key points
- DR Congo's public sector pharmacists go on strike over unpaid risk allowance.
- The strike may impact the private sector and public health.
- The union demands resolution on administrative and financial issues.
