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Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh is calling for the urgent formation of an independent mediation body to help break the deadlock between the government and the striking Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA).
The strike, now in its fourth day, has thrown Ghana’s public healthcare system into crisis, with hospitals overwhelmed and patients stranded. Nurses and midwives across the country have withdrawn their services in protest over delays in implementing their 2024 Conditions of Service.
Speaking to JoyNews, the minister stressed the critical need for a neutral mediator to step in and guide both parties toward a fair resolution.
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“We want to be very objective. An independent body should come in here. The independent body will be able to look into the face of the Minister of Health or Minister of Finance and say, ‘You are supposed to do this, so let’s go this route,’” Akandoh said.
He urged calm and cooperation, noting that escalating the situation would only worsen the strain on Ghana’s fragile health sector.
“We are not ready to intimidate anybody, and I pray and hope that nobody is also prepared to intimidate the government. Let’s sit around the table, find a solution to the matter, and have frank discussions.”
The minister called on both sides to set aside their emotions and focus on their shared duty to protect lives.
“Let’s massage our egos. Let’s put our emotions aside. We have Ghanaians to protect. We have an economy to run.”
But the GRNMA is holding firm. General Secretary Dr David Tenkorang says the strike will not end until the government begins implementing the agreed terms of their Conditions of Service, which include outstanding allowances, workload concerns, and delayed postings.
“We deal with the employer. The employer is the same. Government may change, but the employer is the same,” Dr Tenkorang insisted.
He lamented the government’s delay in fulfilling its commitments and highlighted the sacrifices made by healthcare workers, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are ready to work and protect our people. Even during COVID, we stood solidly, and we provided essential services. If there’s any time the employer should reward nurses and midwives, it’s now.”
Dr Tenkorang also warned of a worsening brain drain crisis in the health sector, as more nurses and midwives seek better opportunities abroad.
“Those who are remaining have sacrificed. They can also travel. But the thing is, all of us cannot leave. We need to remain in Ghana to build Ghana together.”
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