Drivers Union in the Northern Region recently protested against their employers’ failure to provide them with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while working amidst the Coronavirus pandemic.

The demonstrations saw the drivers block roads and stop all big vehicles from moving on the roads. The protests follow after Malawi registered 34 coronavirus cases, three deaths and four recoveries. The union’s representative, Chisomo Chipeta told The Daily Times that the drivers carry essential goods and materials across countries hence need for preventative measures.

“Our bosses do not care about our lives. They do not provide us with PPEs and risk allowances.” Chipeta said.

Malawi has seen various sit-ins in the last two weeks; prior to the drivers’ strike, Malawi Prison staff across the country began a strike, demanding the government to give them an allocation from the K157 billion Covid-19 fund. Health workers were also on strike, demanding PPEs and a raise in risk allowances, to which the latter was provided by the government.