Health workers embarked on a strike after the government announced a US$50 top-up for certain categories of health workers under the 2025 national budget.
By Lincoln G. Peters
Monrovia, December 27, 2024: The Assembly of Liberian Health Professionals has announced that substantial progress has been made in addressing salary disparities among health workers following the government’s recent actions.
The association reported progress in addressing salary disparities during a press conference held on December 24, 2024, in Paynesville, Montserrado County.
The association stated that a salary gap closure initiative has been implemented to ensure more equitable compensation across various categories of health workers, starting January 2025.
The Acting Secretary General of the Assembly of Liberian Health Professionals, Benjamin O. Suamey, urged health workers to return to their posts.
“Your dedication and commitment to providing essential healthcare services are invaluable, and your return to work is crucial for the well-being of our patients and communities,” he stated.
The initiative, which comes after intense discussions and negotiations, ensures that health workers receive fairer salaries.
Among the new measures, pharmacists will now earn US$1,200, nurse anesthetists will receive US$500, and BSc nurses will be compensated at US$375.
Other groups, such as the diploma and AA nurses, will now earn US$350, while physician assistants (PAs) will receive US$400.
Additionally, certified midwives will earn US$300, registered midwives will earn US$320, lab technicians and operating room technicians will be paid US$300, and nurse aides will earn US$185.
Volunteers in various healthcare roles will also be employed, with compensation based on their roles.
Suamey assured his colleagues that the Assembly remains actively engaged in discussions with the government to address any further concerns.
Suamey continued that the association will ensure that the new compensation and reclassification policies are implemented effectively.
He also emphasized the need for unity in strengthening Liberia’s healthcare system.
“Should there be any harassment related to the collective action or if further information is needed, please inform your leaders, as your welfare is paramount to us,” Suamey added.
The strike, which was scheduled to begin on December 10, 2024, was sparked by the government’s announcement of a US$50 top-up for certain categories of health workers under the 2025 national budget.
The Assembly condemned the decision, claiming that the top-up violated the Health Sector Pay Grade and Salary Reclassification Policy, which was designed to address salary disparities among healthcare workers.
In light of the government’s recent measures, the strike has been suspended as health professionals continue to work towards resolving any outstanding issues.
The government and health worker professionals are expected to continue their dialogue to ensure that the healthcare sector in Liberia remains resilient and well-compensated.
