Senegal unions report low strike turnout in Tivaouane
Only 29% of education staff and 21% of health workers joined a 72-hour strike in Tivaouane, according to official figures.
A 72-hour strike called by the Front syndical on Wednesday saw low participation in Tivaouane, with official figures indicating only 29.02% of education personnel and 21% of staff at the Mame Abdou Aziz Sy Dabakh hospital observed the action. In education, 438 out of 1509 expected teachers participated, with higher rates in preschool and middle school compared to elementary. The majority of teachers remained at work, ensuring classes continued.
At the Mame Abdou Aziz Sy Dabakh hospital, the 21% of staff who struck included those providing care, leading to the suspension of emergency services like radiology and laboratory tests. Hospital director Dr. Yoro Diagne reported an 80% drop in daily revenue. Similar revenue declines were noted at the Massamba Sall health center, where maternity, emergency, and doctor services were affected.
The Front syndical for the Defense of Labor (FSDT) claimed a 90% national turnout for the strike, denouncing what it called "illegal requisitions" and "intimidation tactics" by authorities. Despite these claims, official figures from Tivaouane suggest a limited impact on the education and health sectors in the department, though some services were disrupted and revenues significantly reduced.
Why it mattersTeachers and healthcare workers in Tivaouane are affected by a low turnout in a strike that disrupted some services and reduced hospital revenues.