Accra: Dr. Joana Agyeman-Yeboah, Director of Nursing and Midwifery Services at the International Maritime Hospital, has issued a call for increased investment in the welfare and development of nurses and midwives in Ghana. She made this appeal during the launch of the 2025 International Nurses Day in Accra. The event centered on the theme, 'Nurses and Midwives, Our Future: Caring for Nurses and Midwives Strengthens Economies.'
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Agyeman-Yeboah highlighted the essential role that nurses and midwives play in healthcare, advocating for better working conditions, fair remuneration, and ongoing professional development. She pointed out that low pay is a significant issue that undermines the healthcare system, urging that it be addressed to enhance clinical competencies. Education and leadership training in the fields of nursing and midwifery were also underscored as crucial components.
Dr. Agyeman-Yeboah stated, 'Investing in nurses and midwives is not a financial burden but a strategic move towards building more efficient, sustainable, and equitable healthcare systems.' The sentiment was echoed by Mrs. Perpetual Ofori Ampofo, President of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), who also urged the government to focus on the health and wellness of nurses.
Mrs. Ampofo emphasized that a healthy nursing workforce could provide high-quality care, improve healthcare systems, and increase economic resilience globally. She called for a reform of the training system, suggesting a single Bachelor of Science-level entry to replace the existing auxiliary, diploma, and BSc levels. She also identified challenges such as lack of equipment, water supply issues, and unpaid internships as obstacles that need addressing.
She further stated, 'If we want to attain Universal Health Coverage and the targets of the Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 3, then it is important that we continue to invest in our nurses, in our midwives, and see that we gain economic impact.' Mrs. Ampofo also advocated for the abolition of International Labour Organization Convention 119 to protect all workers, including health professionals.
Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, Deputy Chief of Staff, reassured nurses and midwives of the government's commitment to their welfare. She announced a budget allocation of GH?480 million for 2025 to support nursing trainees and mentioned plans to complete nearly 90 unfinished hospital projects.
In a speech delivered on his behalf, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh assured that efforts are being made to improve conditions of service, finalize a collective agreement, and curb the emigration of health professionals. He advocated for a unified association of nurses and midwives to enhance collaboration with the Ministry on policy, communication, and advocacy.
International Nurses Day, observed globally on May 12, celebrates the contributions of nurses to society, marking the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale. The event saw the presence of dignitaries such as Daasebre Kwaku Boateng III, Paramount Chief of the New Juabeng Traditional Area, Alhaji Dawuda Ibrahim Braimah, Chief Labour Officer, directors, senior nurses, and midwives. A number of nurses and midwives were honored for their dedication and hard work.