Healthcare workers at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital protested against the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society for poor service at its kiosk, citing issues like high food prices and payment methods. They highlighted worsening working conditions due to lack of basic amenities, calling for significant improvements.
Healthcare workers at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare recently protested against the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society (ZRCS), criticizing the organization for its inadequate service at its kiosk. The demonstration highlighted deteriorating working conditions that impede operations at this major referral hospital. Key issues raised included the lack of basic amenities such as electricity and running water, which severely impact the employees’ ability to provide quality patient care.
The protest commenced early in the morning, with nurses displaying placards stating messages like “No Water, No Power, No Care!” and “Our Patients Deserve Better.” Moreover, the healthcare workers expressed dissatisfaction with the high prices of food at the ZRCS kiosk, which they deemed overpriced and unaffordable for them and hospital patients. They also reported that cashiers at the kiosk only accept payment in US dollars, further complicating financial interactions for local staff and patients.
One nurse remarked on the situation, stating, “The food at the Red Cross Kiosk is very expensive and not affordable for many of us as well as patients and ordinary people. The kiosk staff does not accept the local currency, they want us to pay in US dollars only.” In addition, concerns were raised regarding the ZRCS kiosk’s growing operational challenges, which contradicted its mission as a humanitarian organization.
Monday’s protest gained traction online, with videos showing nurses chanting slogans criticizing the expenses at the ZRCS kiosk. The healthcare workers urged for its closure, citing that its operations have become unsustainable. ZRCS secretary-general Elias Hwenga declined to comment on the specifics of the protest but asserted that the canteen provides “excellent and affordable services,” questioning the claims of deteriorating standards made by the protesters.
Despite allegations of the organization’s struggles, including a reported debt of US$2 million and outstanding taxes owed to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, Hwenga dismissed these claims as false. The ZRCS is recognized as the auxiliary to the government through the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society Act No 30 of 1981, which mandates its operational presence throughout the country and affiliation with the global Red Cross movement.
The recent protest by healthcare workers at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital underscores significant concerns regarding the services provided by the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society, particularly at its kiosk. The nurses’ grievances reflect broader issues regarding deteriorating conditions within the hospital and the struggle for access to affordable resources. ZRCS is urged to address these challenges to fulfill its humanitarian obligations and support healthcare staff and patients effectively.
Original Source: www.newsday.co.zw
