The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has issued a stern warning to the Mahama government, threatening industrial action if the directive to revoke appointments of nurses and midwives recruited after December 7, 2024, is not rescinded.
This directive, issued by the Chief of Staff, has sparked outrage among the nursing community, who argue that it is unfair and will have dire consequences on healthcare delivery.
According to the GRNMA, the recruitment process for nurses and midwives is rigorous and involves financial clearance from the Ministry of Finance, followed by a mandatory one-year internship.
The association argues that nurses and midwives recruited after December 7, 2024, are professionals who have undergone the necessary training and deserve to practice their skills.
The GRNMA has questioned the timing and motivation behind the government’s directive, suggesting that it may be politically motivated.
The association has called on the government to reconsider the directive and exempt nurses and midwives, citing the critical role they play in the healthcare system.
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has also issued a circular directing all new recruits who have not been placed on the payroll as of January 2025 to be suspended.
The GRNMA has condemned this move, arguing that it will lead to a shortage of healthcare professionals and compromise healthcare delivery.
In a press release, the GRNMA stated that if the directive is not rescinded, the association will be forced to take industrial action to protect the interests of its members.
The association has advised all nurses and midwives to remain focused and await further directives.
The standoff between the GRNMA and the government has raised concerns about the impact on healthcare delivery in Ghana.
-BY Daniel Bampoe
