Zimbabwean nurses have downed tools, abandoned wards, and left patients stranded as they demand an increase in their wages and allowances.

Services at Parirenyatwa hospital nearly ground to a halt, with student nurses stepping in to assist in critical wards. The protest comes just days after a similar job action by nurses at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital. The nurses said their grievances have worsened due to recent increases in fuel prices, which have driven up transport costs.

The current transport allowance of ZiG500, approximately $15, is not sufficient for them. Some spend upwards of $6 on commuting alone on a daily basis. Health Service Commission Public Relations Officer Kudzayi Manyepa said the nurses’ concerns would be addressed, urging them to formally present their grievances.