Malawi health workers threaten walkout
A coalition of health workers has given the government a 14-day ultimatum to address critical shortages and staffing issues.
Healthcare workers in Malawi are planning to withdraw their services from public health facilities after a 14-day ultimatum to President Peter Mutharika’s administration expired without a satisfactory response.
The Human Resources for Health Coalition, which petitioned the government on October 27, 2026, demanding the recruitment of over 14,400 qualified health professionals, warned of potential service shutdowns. Coalition chairperson Solomon Chomba stated that the group has not received a reply from the Office of the President and Cabinet, indicating a likely tactical labour withdrawal and potential court action.
Chomba described dire conditions in clinics and hospitals, citing a lack of gloves and drugs, and overburdened staff, and stated the coalition would proceed step-by-step before a nationwide withdrawal. The Ministry of Health and Sanitation has also reportedly ignored the coalition's request for a meeting, though a ministry spokesperson claimed recruitment is underway.
Why it mattersHealthcare workers are threatening a nationwide withdrawal of services, impacting all public health facilities across Malawi.