Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has called for the immediate establishment of an independent mediation body to resolve the ongoing deadlock between the government and striking nurses and midwives.
Thousands of healthcare workers have withdrawn services nationwide in protest over delayed implementation of agreed Conditions of Service, leaving hospitals overwhelmed and patients stranded.
Mr. Akandoh expressed deep concern about the strike’s impact on public health, urging all parties to set aside emotions and work cooperatively.
“Let’s massage our egos, let’s put our emotions aside. We have Ghanaians to protect,” he told JoyNews.
He stressed that an independent body could objectively hold both the Ministry of Health and Finance accountable to agreed commitments and help bring the dispute to a swift resolution.
Meanwhile, the Registered Nurses and Midwives Association remains steadfast. General Secretary Dr. David Tenkorang insists the strike will continue until the government implements the agreed terms.
“The Ministry of Health hasn’t changed, but the government has changed hands. That doesn’t mean previous agreements should be ignored,” he said.
Dr. Tenkorang highlighted the sacrifices nurses and midwives have made, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, and warned of the growing exodus of trained health workers seeking opportunities abroad.
“Those who remain have sacrificed much. We need to stay and build Ghana together,” he stressed, urging the government to act quickly before more healthcare professionals are lost.
