Congo Health Workers Strike Over Unpaid Wages Amid Rising Ebola Death Toll

BUNIA, Congo — The healthcare workers at the epicenter of Congo’s Ebola outbreak have begun a strike, citing unpaid wages as the primary reason. The protest threatens efforts to contain the virus, which officials say is spreading faster than the response.

In Ituri province, the hardest-hit region, front-line workers report not receiving wages or bonuses since the outbreak was declared on May 15. They also claim insufficient protective gear and unfair treatment from authorities and response teams.

Dr. Biensi Kano, an epidemiological committee member in Bunia, stated, “Since the Ebola outbreak began, we’ve been demanding payment for our work.”

Health authorities report 1,708 cases, including 580 deaths, with the first month being the worst on record. The strike coincides with the start of clinical trials for the Bundibugyo virus treatment.

The World Health Organization’s representative in Congo, Dr. Anne Ancia, noted the virus is spreading due to population movements and insecurity, with some treatment centers nearing full capacity. The non-payment of benefits “exposes us and our families to significant socio-economic difficulties,” Kano added.

Local workers in Ituri threatened a strike if wages were not paid within 24 hours. By Tuesday, some had already ceased work, though no official strike was declared. The strike includes safety teams, community outreach workers, and those burying Ebola victims.

Congo’s government did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Officials in Ituri claim they have met with workers and are addressing concerns.

“We’re not receiving timely payments because Bunia Airport is closed, disrupting fund flows,” said Pierre Akilimali, incident manager at Congo’s National Institute of Public Health.

Workers organized a protest Monday outside the Rwampara Ebola treatment center, setting tires ablaze, which caused temporary chaos before police intervened.

Beyond pay issues, health workers face attacks from residents and public skepticism. Dr. Ben Bakule, a community investigator, narrowly escaped an attack in late May by a group targeting him and colleagues while tracing Ebola contacts in Tutu village.

“We spend money on transport to work but receive nothing. This government seems to want the epidemic to continue,” Bakule said, expressing frustration.

When Health Minister Roger Kamba assured response teams of support in Mongbwalu, front-line workers said reality differed. Dr. Ghislain Maneba, an epidemiologist, stated, “We work day and night without pay. This is how we’re thanked—by risking our lives.”

The strike has caused concern among Ituri residents, who face economic hardship from outbreak measures. Bunia resident Anifa Kito urged authorities to resolve the issue promptly to prevent further crises.

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