Minister of Health Ensures Job Security for Nurses Recruited Post-December 2024

Accra: Mr Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister of Health, has assured the public that the government will not dismiss any nurses or midwives who were recruited after December 7, 2024. He emphasized that the Ministry, along with the Ghana Health Service and the Catholic Health Association of Ghana, has not terminated the employment of any health worker. "We are committed to building and sustaining the health workforce," Mr Akandoh stated during the opening ceremony of the inaugural African Nurses and Midwives Confederation conference in Accra, organized by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association. According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Akandoh pledged support for nurses and midwives by providing all necessary logistical needs to facilitate their work and enhance healthcare delivery. Mrs Perpetual Ofori Ampofo, President of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), expressed hope in the minister's assurances, stating that the association trusts in his commitment to prevent any dismi ssals. "We are taking his word for it, and we hope that nothing of such nature will happen," she said. She further assured that the association would continue to collaborate with the Ministry of Health to achieve the ministry's health priorities. The five-day conference, which concludes on February 24, 2025, has participation from 17 African countries and is themed "Nurses and Midwives, Fostering Health for all in Africa." Mrs Ampofo emphasized the vital role that nurses and midwives play in the economic development of countries, urging nations to invest in them to ensure a significant impact. She highlighted the importance of education, clinical practice, research, rehabilitation, and preventive healthcare, emphasizing that the health and remuneration of nurses and midwives should reflect their contributions. Mrs Ampofo also noted the importance of logistical support, career progression, and study leave in enabling nurses and midwives to enhance their skills and knowledge, aligning with Ghana's health agen da. She encouraged healthcare professionals to trust in their leadership, which is committed to advocating for their needs, and called for collective efforts to achieve desired health outcomes. The African Nurses and Midwives Confederation aims to bring African countries together as a regional body, fostering collaboration, networking, and influence in the health sector.