Health workers across Sierra Leone go on strike

By Alpha Kamara

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone

A nationwide strike by health workers has left thousands of patients unattended in hospitals across Sierra Leone.

The strike was called on Monday after a 21-day ultimatum to the government expired. Health workers are demanding better salaries and working conditions.

“The entire membership of the Sierra Leone Medical and Dental Association and the Junior Doctors Association would like to inform the public that doctors have decided to lay down tools indefinitely starting at 12 midnight on the 10th of December 2018. Starting from the date, doctors nationwide will not be attending to work until demands for to respond to our concerns are met," their statement reads.

The government has said it will look into salary increases for the doctors in next year's budget.