The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has initiated a nationwide strike, withdrawing their services in protest against the government’s failure to implement the 2024 Collective Agreement. This agreement, signed by the GRNMA, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Finance, and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, outlines crucial terms and conditions of service for nurses and midwives across Ghana. The GRNMA’s President, Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo, has expressed deep disappointment over the government’s inaction, highlighting the financial hardships faced by nurses and midwives, which the agreement seeks to address. The phased withdrawal of services began with OPD services being suspended and has escalated to a complete withdrawal of all services, significantly impacting healthcare delivery across the country.
The government’s response, calling upon retired nurses and midwives to volunteer their services, has been met with strong criticism from the GRNMA. Ofori-Ampofo argues that retired healthcare professionals, having dedicated decades to their careers, often face physical ailments and financial constraints upon retirement. Expecting them to volunteer, instead of addressing the legitimate concerns of the current workforce, is seen as an inadequate and insensitive solution. She emphasizes that these retirees deserve adequate care and financial security after years of service rather than being called upon to fill gaps created by unresolved disputes.
The core issue at the heart of the strike is the government’s delay in implementing the agreed-upon terms outlined in the Collective Agreement. This agreement addresses critical aspects of their working conditions, including fair wages, allowances, and other benefits. Nurses and midwives argue that their current remuneration does not reflect the demanding nature of their work, the long hours, and the risks they face. They contend that the cost of living has risen significantly, further eroding their purchasing power and making it difficult to meet their basic needs. The delay in implementing the 2024 agreement exacerbates their financial struggles, prompting the industrial action as a last resort to demand their due compensation.
The GRNMA president highlighted the financial pressures faced by nurses and midwives, explaining that their salaries are often barely enough to cover basic living expenses such as rent, transportation, and family needs. She stressed that fulfilling the terms of the Collective Agreement is not a matter of granting extra benefits but rather providing what is rightfully due to them for their crucial role in healthcare delivery. Ofori-Ampofo emphasized that the government’s appeal for volunteers ignores the fundamental issue: the need for sustainable and fair compensation for nurses and midwives.
Despite the complete withdrawal of services, the GRNMA has taken steps to mitigate the impact on critical patient care. Ofori-Ampofo explains that directives have been issued to regional branches to maintain skeletal staff in crucial areas such as adult and pediatric critical care units. This ensures that patients in dire need continue to receive essential care until their conditions stabilize. While student and rotational nurses are still present, their effectiveness is limited as they require supervision from senior colleagues, who are currently on strike. This underscores the vital role experienced nurses and midwives play in providing comprehensive and safe healthcare services.
The ongoing strike highlights the broader challenges within Ghana’s healthcare system. The GRNMA’s actions underscore the urgent need for the government to prioritize the welfare of its healthcare workforce. Addressing the concerns raised in the Collective Agreement is crucial not only for ensuring fair treatment of nurses and midwives but also for maintaining a functional and effective healthcare system. The government’s continued delay in implementing the agreement risks further escalating the situation, potentially leading to a prolonged disruption of healthcare services and negatively impacting the health and well-being of the Ghanaian population. The GRNMA remains firm in its stance, demanding the full implementation of the 2024 Collective Agreement as a prerequisite for returning to work and ensuring quality healthcare services for all.
