Ministry of Health urges GRNMA to reconsider strike as dialogue continues

The Ministry of Health has urged the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) to end its nationwide strike. The Ministry is committed to resolving issues related to the 2024 Collective Agreement.

In a press release, spokesperson Tony Goodman outlined steps taken to address concerns. The Ministry held a stakeholder meeting on May 30, 2025. This meeting included key nursing associations like GRNMA and others.

During the meeting, all groups called for immediate implementation of the 2024 Collective Agreement. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh promised to improve nurses' welfare. He suggested forming a three-member committee with representatives from nursing groups and government ministries.

Currently, all unions except GRNMA have agreed to continue providing healthcare services during discussions. To address the potential impact of GRNMA's strike, the Ministry has issued several directives.

Security agencies will protect nurses and midwives who choose to work. Hospital managers must remain present throughout the industrial action. Unit heads are responsible for ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services, especially in maternity and emergencies.

Ambulance services will be on standby across all districts. Health facilities should set up emergency coordination structures with ambulance services. The Director-General of Ghana Health Service will report daily on service delivery.

The Ministry will work with quasi-government health facilities to handle any increase in patients. Rotational nurses and those in clinical training are advised not to join the strike.

The Ministry will monitor developments closely and ensure essential logistics are provided. They praised nurses and midwives who chose not to participate in the strike.

Mr. Goodman appealed to GRNMA to reconsider its decision for public health's sake. “We urge GRNMA to engage in dialogue with us for a lasting resolution,” he said.