The social crisis in Senegal's health sector has escalated further. The And Gueusseum coalition, united under the Alliance of Autonomous Health Unions (ASAS), unveiled its tenth action plan in Dakar on April 26, 2026, marked by an intensification of union activity. This plan includes rolling strikes and the boycott of national public health programs.

After several months of tension and stalled negotiations, the unions believe they have exhausted all avenues of dialogue with the authorities. During their previous action plan, healthcare workers had already paralyzed the healthcare system for a cumulative total of 144 hours.

Faced with what they describe as "inertia" and "contempt" from the government, the leaders of And Gueusseum are now announcing a change of strategy. Starting in mid-May 2026, 48-hour strikes will be organized every week, while ensuring emergency services are maintained, but without a minimum service.

Another significant measure is the total boycott of two pillars of national health policy: the National Tuberculosis Control Program and the National Malaria Control Program, starting May 15, 2026. This decision has far-reaching consequences in a country where these diseases remain a major public health challenge. Through this action, the union coalition intends to increase pressure on the authorities and provoke a response at the highest levels of government.

Direct appeal to the head of state

In their statement, the unions directly appeal to the President of the Republic, calling on him to personally intervene to end the crisis. They denounce a "social pact emptied of its substance" and accuse the government of allowing the situation to fester. The coalition also criticizes the attitude of the Minister of Health, whom they accuse of avoiding dialogue and communicating in a way that is "out of touch with reality," particularly during his recent public address on April 21.

Reforms deemed insufficient

Beyond the social conflict, And Gueusseum is challenging the current directions of healthcare system reform. The unions deem inadequate the proposals concerning the healthcare map, hospital reform, and the draft Health Code. They advocate instead for a thorough overhaul of the sector, based on sustainable and equitable funding, a massive recruitment of healthcare personnel, and governance focused on transparency and competence.

A mobilization that is expected to continue

The union coalition also praised the mobilization of its members during the recent presidential visit to Kolda, while warning against any attempt to co-opt the movement. Determined to continue their struggle, the unions assert that only increased mobilization will lead to the fulfillment of their demands. "The struggle remains the primary lever for social transformation," they insist.

The tenth action plan includes 48-hour strikes on May 15-16, 21-22, and 28-29, 2026. The boycott of tuberculosis and malaria control programs will begin on May 15, while an evaluation of the movement is scheduled for June 2, 2026. As the standoff continues, the Senegalese health system is once again under severe strain, with potential repercussions for access to care for the population.