DRC doctors' union suspends strike, medical services to resume Monday

The Syndicate of Doctors of the Democratic Republic of Congo (SYMECO) announced on Sunday, August 9, 2026, the suspension of its strike, which had disrupted healthcare services since July 3. The decision comes after an evaluation of progress made in negotiations with the government, signaling a return to normalcy in public hospitals starting Monday, August 10.

Doctors convened in general assemblies and provincial councils on August 7 to assess the government's commitments, particularly regarding the "effective integration of supplementary pay into the ordinary July 2026 salary" and the administrative regularization of certain medical professionals. The government also committed to aligning the pay for 800 doctors receiving supplementary compensation.

SYMECO stated that these advancements led to the decision to suspend the strike and call for a full resumption of medical services. The syndicate, however, emphasized that this suspension does not mark the end of their demands. It is intended to facilitate continued dialogue with the government and monitor the implementation of the agreed-upon measures.

The syndicate expressed gratitude to its members for their mobilization and to the public for their support during the strike. While services are set to resume, SYMECO will remain vigilant in ensuring that the government upholds its promises, maintaining pressure to ensure the long-term improvement of working conditions for healthcare professionals.