The Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby has revealed that the government of Sierra Leone spends Le 31 billion old Leones annually on fuel for doctors across the country. Speaking at the weekly press briefing organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, Dr. Demby emphasized that the amount only covers fuel for Grade 9 doctors, excluding their salaries.
According to Dr. Demby, despite financial constraints, the government has consistently provided fuel for doctors in the first two quarters of 2024. However, the outstanding payments for fuel for the third and fourth quarters—July through December—are yet to be settled. The Ministry of Finance has informed the doctors that while efforts are being made to pay salaries, the remaining fuel allowances will be prioritized once funds become available.
Dr. Demby stressed the importance of addressing the doctors’ concerns, noting that strike action is not an ideal solution as it could jeopardize lives. He called for a resolution through a committee comprising the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Labor, Ministry of Finance, and the Civil Service, aiming to establish a system that ensures doctors receive their fuel allowances automatically each quarter.
