Zimbabwe is currently facing a severe crisis within its public health system, with over 14,000 workers missing from the sector. The situation has prompted Zimbabwean authorities to take heavy-handed measures to ensure the healthcare system remains functional and to retain medical professionals within the country. These efforts are aimed at mitigating the impact of the workforce exodus and maintaining essential healthcare services for the population.
Despite the government’s stringent actions, many healthcare workers continue to seek better opportunities abroad, driven by factors such as low wages, poor working conditions, and limited career advancement. This mass departure of skilled professionals has raised alarms about the sustainability of Zimbabwe’s healthcare system and the potential consequences for public health. The government is under pressure to provide more attractive conditions to retain its medical workforce and prevent further deterioration of the health sector.