Zimbabwe Nurses Reject US$40 Pay Rise, Announce Nationwide Strike

By Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe’s nurses have rejected a US$30–US$40 (approx. R555–R740) salary increment and announced a nationwide strike action set for 20 to 22 April 2026, citing dissatisfaction with what they describe as inadequate adjustments.

The move follows earlier plans to strike from 15 to 17 April 2026, which were later revised after internal consultations. The Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) confirmed the new dates in an official communication dated 14 April 2026.

Nurses Say Increment “Cannot Be Taken Seriously”
In a statement shared by the Zimbabwe Nurses Association, members expressed strong dissatisfaction with the latest salary review.

“It has however become clear that the increases that were implemented for the April 2026 salaries do not meet the undertaking given by the employer nor the expectations of the employees.”

The association added:

“The salaries are so inconsequential to such an extent that they remain a mere token that cannot be taken seriously.”

On X, the Zimbabwe Nurses Association indicated that nurses were shocked by the increment, stating:

“Nurses say they got the shock of their lives after receiving salary increment of only US$30–US$40.”

The dispute centres on concerns over the rising cost of living and what nurses say is a widening gap between earnings and expenses.


According to the Zimbabwe Nurses Association, the initial strike notice had been issued on 26 March 2026, giving the employer time to address concerns.

“On the 26th of March 2026, we gave notice to the employer of the intention to proceed on strike… unless certain demands were met.”

Following engagements with the employer and the Health Apex Council, there were expectations that salary adjustments would be implemented in April 2026.

“Calculations of proposed salary increases were made… and an undertaking to effect these from the April 2026 pay cycle were made.”


However, the association said the outcome fell short of expectations, prompting fresh action.

The strike dates were later adjusted to allow for better coordination.

“Members… have requested for more time to prepare for the strike… the strike will now commence from Monday the 20th of April 2026 until Wednesday the 22nd of April 2026.”

Nationwide Action Expected Across All Provinces
The association has called for a unified national response, urging all members to participate.

“From Monday 20th of April 2026 to Wednesday 22nd of April 2026, all nurses, in all provinces and in all districts, will embark on a strike.”

Leaders at various levels have also been tasked with mobilisation.

“All hospital, district and provincial leaders are expected to mobilise effectively as per the mandate given to them by members.”

The association stressed the importance of collective action:

“Isolated demonstrations are not as effective as a nationwide act and therefore we urge a unified front.”

The nurses’ strike is expected to affect public health services across Zimbabwe during the three-day period.