Zimbabwe civil servants on strike over pay

Zimbabwean civil officials have started a two-day strike to demand pay raises.

Additionally, because the local currency is fast losing value, they want to be compensated in US dollars.

Unions claim that even though the government is doubling pay this month, the hikes have been negatively impacted by rising inflation, which is currently at nearly 190 percent.

Unions warned the BBC that they anticipate all of their employees staying at home, which could cause significant delays to schools, healthcare facilities, and government agencies.

But given that instructors appear to be at work, the strike does not appear to have been effectively observed.

Doctors and nurses included, the average worker makes roughly $200 (£165) each month.

The Zimbabwe dollar has lost over 50% of its value since January, partly due to the war in Ukraine.

Unions are planning a long strike in September if their demands are not met.