Burundi : indefinite strike at the Kamenge Neuropsychiatric Center, staff denounce violations of agreements

SOS Médias Burundi

Bujumbura, April 23, 2026 — Staff at the Kamenge Neuropsychiatric Center (CNPK), members of SYNAPA (National Union of Paramedical and Nursing Staff) and SNTS (National Union of Health Workers), have decided to extend the strike that began last week. The work stoppage is now indefinite. Employees are denouncing violations of agreements signed with the Ministry of Health, particularly regarding the imposition of certain allowances, including housing allowances.

According to Adolphe Niyongere, a staff representative, the center’s management has not provided any clear response to their demands. He indicates that the salaries of contract employees have fallen sharply since October 2025. Despite efforts made with the authorities, no concrete response has been received.

The union representative also points out that the measures to implement the cited law have not yet been put in place. In this context, he believes that the previous provisions should remain in effect. He criticizes management for applying a law whose implementation details are not yet available.

For his part, Marcus Ciza, director of the CNPK, states that the matter is currently in the hands of the Ministry of Health. He clarifies that the management has not eliminated the allowances, but is applying a tax law that mandates them. He is, however, making the resumption of discussions conditional on the staff returning to work.

The director calls on employees to prioritize social dialogue while ensuring the continuity of services, believing that a strike is not a constructive solution. He also mentions the possibility of measures to demand a return to work.

This situation highlights growing tensions within this leading mental health center in Burundi and raises concerns about respect for workers’ rights in the healthcare sector.

The prolonged shutdown of operations could lead to an interruption of essential services, jeopardizing patient care. A negotiated solution is therefore urgently needed to prevent the situation from worsening.