MALAWI: Mzimba South Health Surveillance Assistants Protest Unpaid Allowances

By Smile Hamilton, Malawi 

Health Surveillance Assistants (HSAs) in Mzimba South have halted work, protesting unpaid allowances after conducting a Mass Drug Administration exercise in September, which was supported by Evidence in Action. The HSAs claim they’ve approached Evidence in Action multiple times, only to be met with delayed payments.

According to the HSAs, they will only resume work once their dues are paid. Mmbelwa District Council Director of Health and Social Services, Dr. Prince Chirwa, requested more time to comment on the matter.

Phillip Phiri, Programs Manager for Evidence for Action, attributed the payment delay to technical issues in their payment system. However, he assured that the HSAs will receive their payments today or tomorrow.

The HSAs play a vital role in Malawi’s healthcare system, comprising a significant portion of the health workforce. They are recruited by the government, require secondary school education, and undergo training. Their responsibilities are crucial in maintaining community health.

The situation highlights the importance of timely compensation for healthcare workers, ensuring uninterrupted services to the community.