SAMES announces 48-hour strike on September 8 and 9

Senegal’s Autonomous Union of Doctors, Pharmacists and Dental Surgeons (SAMES) has announced a 48-hour total strike scheduled for Tuesday, September 8, and Wednesday, September 9, 2026. The decision was presented on August 31 by its national secretary-general, Dr Diabèle Dramé.

According to SAMES, the action follows several months of discussions whose outcomes the organisation considers insufficient. However, the union said emergency services and a minimum service would be maintained during the strike. Its members have also been called on to wear a red armband.

Demands over status and working conditions

SAMES lists the special status of the medical profession, recruitment, career progression, allowances, retirement pensions and human resources management among its concerns. It is also calling for better support for doctors, pharmacists and dental surgeons undergoing specialist training.

The organisation notably denounces delays in the payment of training allowances. It also challenges a Health Ministry circular dated August 19, 2026, concerning bonuses for professionals.

Demands related to healthcare provision

Beyond its professional demands, the union highlights needs in infrastructure, equipment and staffing. It is calling for a level-2 public health facility in every department, as well as the availability of CT scanners, MRI machines, suitable ambulances and functional laboratories in the regions.

SAMES draws a link between healthcare workers’ working conditions and the quality and equity of public access to healthcare.

Preparing for mobilisation

A meeting of the expanded National Executive Committee has been announced for September 1, ahead of general assemblies beginning on September 2. The union plans to assess the mobilisation on September 10. It says it remains open to dialogue with the authorities, while awaiting concrete responses to its demands.