HEALTHCARE CRISIS DEEPENS AS MEDICAL WORKERS STRIKE NATIONWIDE

By Yonas Mulugeta, Senior Health Reporter
Addis Ababa, 16 Ginbot 2017 E.C. (May 16, 2025)

In an unprecedented development that has paralyzed our nation’s healthcare delivery system, medical professionals across Ethiopia have entered their second week of widespread strikes and protests. The work stoppage has affected approximately 70% of health facilities nationwide, with only emergency and maternity services remaining operational in most institutions.

THE BITTER PILL OF ECONOMIC REALITY

At Tikur Anbesa Specialized Hospital, the nation’s premier medical facility, normally crowded corridors stand deserted as medical staff have withdrawn their services en masse. The striking workers cite what they term as “survival wages” in the face of unrelenting inflation that has eroded their purchasing power.

“After dedicating eight years to medical practice, my monthly salary stands at just 7,600 birr,” Dr. Mahlet Tesfaye told The Ethiopian Tribune while participating in demonstrations at the Federal Ministry of Health compound. “We dedicate our lives to healing others, yet we cannot afford decent housing or provide adequately for our families. Many of us resort to multiple jobs simply to make ends meet.”

The Ethiopian Health Professionals Association (EHPA) has presented data showing Ethiopian healthcare workers earn significantly less than their counterparts in neighboring countries, with salaries in Kenya and South Sudan reported to be seven to nine times higher for comparable positions.

AUTHORITIES ATTEMPT TO MAINTAIN ORDER

In response to the growing demonstrations, government authorities have implemented security measures at major hospitals, with federal police maintaining presence at critical facilities to ensure emergency services continue uninterrupted.

Dr. Yonatan Dagnaw, EHPA president, was taken into custody on Ginbot 4 for questioning regarding alleged violation of public service regulations. While this development has drawn criticism from certain international organisations, government sources indicate the action was necessary to prevent disruption of essential services.

“We presented our concerns through proper channels for months, including a formal notice in Miazia,” explained Nurse Tigist Bekele of the EHPA coordination committee. “We regret the impact on patients but feel we have exhausted all other options.”

HEALTH SYSTEM FACES UNPRECEDENTED CHALLENGES

The ongoing industrial action has highlighted existing challenges within our national healthcare infrastructure. Reports from Hawassa University Hospital indicate significant staff shortages, while facilities in rural areas face complete service interruptions.

“This situation extends beyond compensation issues,” noted health policy researcher Dr. Abiy Tadesse from Addis Ababa University. “Our healthcare budget allocation remains at 3.5% of the national budget, which creates systemic constraints despite the government’s substantial investments in expanding healthcare access over the past decade.”

Ministry of Health officials have announced plans to increase healthcare funding to 33.9 billion birr in the coming fiscal year, though implementation details remain under development as discussions continue.

MULTIPLE FACTORS FUELING DISCONTENT

The striking workers have raised concerns beyond basic salary structures. Many report lacking comprehensive health insurance despite their occupational exposure to infectious diseases. Additionally, a proposed housing scheme in partnership with Dashen Bank has faced implementation delays, causing frustration.

“We contributed our hard-earned money toward housing initiatives that have yet to materialise,” said Samuel Girma, a laboratory professional at a federal hospital. “Meanwhile, living costs continue to rise beyond our means.”

HEALTH EXPERTS URGE QUICK RESOLUTION

Public health officials express growing concern about potential long-term consequences if services remain interrupted. Vaccination campaigns have been temporarily suspended in some areas, while patients with chronic conditions requiring consistent treatment face potential complications.

Dr. Frehiwot Wondimu, who continues providing emergency care at St. Paul’s Hospital, described challenging conditions: “Yesterday, we lost a critical patient because our reduced staffing levels could not provide optimal care. We need sustainable solutions quickly.”

CALL FOR NATIONAL DIALOGUE

The Ministry of Health spokesperson, Ato Dawit Mekonnen, has called for healthcare workers to return to their posts while discussions continue. “The government acknowledges the legitimate concerns raised by our esteemed medical professionals,” he stated during yesterday’s press briefing. “We are actively working on comprehensive solutions that balance immediate needs with long-term sustainability of our healthcare system.”

The Ethiopian Medical Association has proposed formation of a special committee including representatives from the Ministry of Health, healthcare professional associations, and financial experts to develop actionable recommendations within a 15-day timeframe.

POTENTIAL FOR BROADER IMPACT

The situation has attracted attention from other public sector workers facing similar economic challenges. The Ethiopian Teachers Association has expressed solidarity with healthcare workers, while raising parallel concerns about compensation in the education sector.

“What we’re witnessing is the inevitable result of economic pressures affecting all Ethiopians,” observed economic analyst Meaza Gemechu. “When essential workers cannot meet basic needs despite their critical contributions to society, it creates fundamental challenges that require thoughtful consideration.”

As hospitals operate with skeleton staff and patients seek alternative care options, government and healthcare representatives face mounting pressure to find common ground that ensures both appropriate compensation for medical professionals and the continued functioning of our nation’s essential health services.

“We have dedicated our lives to serving our people,” said one doctor at yesterday’s demonstration, “but we cannot continue making such sacrifices while our own families struggle to survive.”

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With additional reporting by Etenesh Gebre in Hawassa