Kinshasa, February 2nd, 2026 (CPA).- Trade union reform, the role of the National Union of Nurses of Congo (UNIC) in strengthening skills and defending professional rights are the focus of the 4th National Council of this corporation, scheduled for February 2nd to 4th in Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. ‘The theme that brings us together is “Trade union reform: the role of the UNIC in strengthening skills and defending professional rights”, which expresses our common desire to build a modern, strong and dignified trade union that serves its members,’ said Mr. Joseph Kibangula, Secretary General of the UNIC. ‘The aim of this activity is to equip the union with the new reformed or analyzed texts, because we are in the process of adapting to the reforms undertaken by the Ministry in charge of Public Service… We will re-examine the texts and take resolutions that will be brought to the attention of the authorities,’ he added. Mr Kibangula said that this meeting is a decisive moment when these reforms must be strengthened in order to develop skills and consolidate the defense of nurses’ rights to ensure democratic and inclusive governance. The UNIC Secretary-General noted that eight items will be examined during this meeting, including the revision of the statute, the procedure manual, the code of conduct, and the internal, electoral and administrative regulations.
Delayed payment of nurses denounced
Mr. Kibangula also denounced late payment of nurses, especially those living in the provinces. ‘I strongly denounce the abusive practices of certain paying banks. These institutions, which are supposed to serve agents and nurses, have become veritable traps of humiliation,’ he said. He noted that the delays caused by these banks are the source of administrative hassles that deprive nurses of their dignity and unjustified costs that eat into their income. ‘These practices are not mere inconveniences; they are a direct attack on the respect due to us as state workers. They undermine our profession and erode the trust we should have in institutions,’ he said. In view of this situation, Mr Kibangula called on the competent authorities to take firm action to put an end to these abuses and establish a banking system that truly serves nurses. He called on nurses to cultivate unity, discipline and creativity to make the UNIC a modern, respected and mobilizing union capable of defending the rights of nurses. Several nurses from Kinshasa and those from the provinces are taking part in this activity.