SYNAMED launches nationwide “Hospitals Without Doctors” strike in DR Congo

The National Doctors’ Union (SYNAMED) in the Democratic Republic of Congo announced an intensified strike, launching the “Hospitals without doctors” operation from July 7‑16, 2026. The action will affect all public hospitals across the country, with the exception of the eastern provinces of Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu.

During the strike only emergency departments and blood banks will remain operational. Urgent cases will be handled through a polarisation system supervised by senior physicians and department heads. SYNAMED says the move follows the government’s failure to honor commitments after a presidential directive to the prime minister to open a social dialogue with doctors. Executive Secretary Jhon Senga Lwamba condemned the government’s “indifference” and urged members to maintain full mobilisation until their demands are met.