Zimbabwe Blocks Nurses’ Exit: Over 4,000 Held Back as Verification Letters Withheld
The Zimbabwean government has halted the issuance of verification letters for over 4,000 nurses, effectively preventing them from securing employment overseas, particularly in the United Kingdom.
Although nurses have paid the required US$300 fee, thousands are still waiting for their verification letters, causing frustration among healthcare professionals.
A senior official from the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare confirmed that over 6,789 Zimbabwean nurses are already working in the UK, with another 1,000 having relocated to Ireland.
In some wards, the nurse-to-patient ratio has surged to an alarming 1:20 or 1:30, further straining healthcare facilities.
Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) president Enock Dongo condemned the government’s decision, labelling it a direct violation of workers’ rights.
According to NewsDay, Dongo expressed concerns over nurses being denied access to vital documents, including diplomas and verification letters, despite completing their mandatory bonding period.
“This is a blatant violation of nurses’ rights. Those who have completed their bonding should be free to seek employment wherever they choose”.
“Over 4,000 professionals are currently impacted, and we insist on the swift release of their verification letters”, Dongo stated.
The prolonged delay in issuing verification letters has heightened tensions between healthcare workers and authorities, as nurses continue to push for fair treatment and employment freedom.
Meanwhile, the government faces increasing pressure to address staffing shortages in public hospitals as the exodus of medical professionals continues.
