The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives’ Association (GRNMA) finds itself at loggerheads with the government over the delayed implementation of their Collective Agreement, a legally binding document outlining terms and conditions of service, signed in May 2024. A year later, despite a court ruling in January 2025 resolving a legal challenge that initially hindered implementation, the agreement remains unfulfilled. The GRNMA, representing the interests of nurses and midwives across the country, has expressed profound disappointment and frustration, emphasizing the perceived disrespect this delay demonstrates towards these essential healthcare professionals. The association contends that the government’s inaction not only undermines morale and trust but also jeopardizes the quality of healthcare services provided to the Ghanaian public. Their patience wearing thin, the GRNMA has signaled its intent to pursue industrial action if the government fails to address their concerns promptly.
At the heart of the GRNMA’s grievance is the government’s perceived disregard for the agreed-upon terms outlined in the Collective Agreement. This document, the product of negotiations between the GRNMA, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Finance, and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, represents a commitment to fair compensation and working conditions for nurses and midwives. The delay in implementation, according to the association, signifies a breach of trust and a lack of recognition for the vital role these professionals play in the healthcare system. Moreover, the GRNMA highlights the detrimental impact on morale, arguing that the unfulfilled promises erode the dedication and commitment of nurses and midwives, potentially compromising the quality of care they provide.
The GRNMA’s press release, issued on May 28, 2025, details the association’s efforts to resolve the impasse. Despite the initial legal hurdle, which was cleared by the court ruling in January 2025, the GRNMA’s subsequent attempts to engage with the government, including letters and in-person visits, have yielded no tangible results. This perceived inaction has further fueled the association’s frustration and solidified their resolve to take more decisive action. The press release underscores the growing impatience among nurses and midwives, emphasizing that their tolerance for excuses and delays has reached its limit. The association’s leadership has clearly communicated its exhaustion with the ongoing situation and its commitment to supporting its members in their pursuit of fair treatment.
The GRNMA’s threat of industrial action represents a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute. This course of action, while potentially disruptive to healthcare services, reflects the seriousness of the situation and the association’s determination to secure the rights and entitlements of its members. The GRNMA’s call for unity among nurses and midwives underscores the collective nature of their grievance and their shared commitment to achieving a satisfactory resolution. The association’s leadership is urging all members to stand together and support the planned industrial action, demonstrating a unified front against what they perceive as unfair treatment by the government.
The implications of a potential strike by nurses and midwives are far-reaching. Given their critical role in healthcare delivery, any disruption in their services could have a significant impact on the accessibility and quality of care available to the public. This potential disruption adds pressure on the government to address the GRNMA’s concerns and avert a crisis in the healthcare sector. The association’s warning serves as a stark reminder of the essential role nurses and midwives play in maintaining public health and the potential consequences of neglecting their needs and concerns.
The GRNMA’s press release, signed by its key leadership, serves as a formal declaration of their intent to pursue industrial action. The signatures of President Mrs. Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo, First Vice President Mr. Samuel Aleagbor Akologo, General Secretary Mr. David Tenkorang-Twum, and National Treasurer Mr. Moses Roberson Anyoluya demonstrate the unified stance of the association’s leadership. This collective endorsement underscores the seriousness of the situation and reinforces the message that the GRNMA is prepared to take decisive action to protect the interests of its members. The coming days will likely be crucial in determining whether the government and the GRNMA can reach a compromise to avert the threatened industrial action. The outcome of this dispute holds significant implications not only for nurses and midwives but also for the future of healthcare delivery in Ghana.
