The Health Service Commission (HSC) is set to introduce mandatory breathalyser tests and drug screenings for medical personnel in Zimbabwe, in a move aimed at addressing growing concerns over substance abuse in the healthcare sector. The proposal was announced by HSC Secretary Christopher Pasi during a stakeholder consultative meeting held at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals on Tuesday.

Zimbabwe’s public health sector is bracing for disruption after nurses announced a nationwide strike from 15 to 17 April 2026, citing low salaries, poor working conditions, and lack of transparency in payroll systems. The Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) formally notified the Health Service Commission (HSC) of the planned industrial action in a letter dated 26 March.

The Zimbabwean government has launched a phased programme to place village health workers on the national payroll, marking a significant policy shift aimed at standardising remuneration and reducing reliance on donor funding.