'Our interest is not to stay out of work; implement agreed conditions' - Nurses

“Our interest is not to stay out of work. We want to serve the people of Ghana,” said Kingsley Osei-Sarfo. He is the Chairperson of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) in the Brong Ahafo region.

He spoke at the 2025 International Nurses’ Day celebration in Sunyani Asufufu. Mr. Osei-Sarfo urged the government to sign and implement agreed conditions of service by July 2024. This action could prevent escalating industrial unrest.

The event was themed “Nurses and Midwives are the Future: Caring for Nurses and Midwives Strengthens Economies.” It provided a platform for healthcare professionals to discuss welfare concerns. They aimed to enhance capacity for improved healthcare delivery.

A candlelight procession honored Florence Nightingale's legacy during the celebration. Mr. Osei-Sarfo expressed concern over poor working conditions, including low pay, inadequate accommodation, and lack of essential equipment.

He stated, “One key issue is our pay.” Many nurses struggle financially and often take loans to survive. Improving this situation would help stabilize finances and improve nursing care.

He also called for urgent improvements in accommodation facilities for healthcare workers. “We urge all stakeholders to provide suitable housing so nurses can deliver effective care,” he said.

Mr. Osei-Sarfo emphasized that their call for action is based on prior agreements with the government. “These agreements have been discussed, agreed upon, and signed,” he noted.

He explained that it’s now up to the government to implement them. The association's roadmap begins on June 2nd with members wearing red bands on June 2nd and 3rd. From June 4th to 8th, outpatient services will be withdrawn, followed by a suspension of all healthcare services from June 9th if no progress occurs.

“We stress that we do not want to stay away from work,” he added. “We wish to continue serving Ghanaians.” He called on employers to engage with leaders and finalize signing conditions of service.

Mr. Osei-Sarfo encouraged nurses and midwives in Bono East and Brong Ahafo regions to support their leadership during this critical time.

Christiana Esi Ankrah, Regional Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, also appealed for prioritizing nursing sector needs. She implored the Ministry of Health and Ghana Health Service to adopt a comprehensive approach that empowers nurses through education, leadership development, innovation, and policy reforms.

During the event, outstanding nurses were recognized for their exemplary service. Senior Midwifery Officer Mary Acheampongma from St Therese’s Catholic Hospital was named overall best nurse for 2025 in Bono Ahafo region.