Rotational nurses and midwives across Ghana have announced plans to embark on a nationwide strike beginning Monday, June 2, in protest against a year-long delay in receiving their allowances.
The Rotational Nurses and Midwives Association of Ghana says its members have not been paid for 12 months, despite repeated attempts to get the government to act. The group had issued a 14-working-day ultimatum earlier this month, but says it has received no response from the Health Ministry or other relevant authorities.
President of the Association, Ebenezer Boateng, revealed that the silence from government officials has deepened their frustration.
“The minister has not communicated officially to us, which is very sad. This is because they see us now as insignificant in the health sector, in the ministry, as well as to the public,” he said.
Boateng confirmed that the strike will go ahead if nothing changes before the deadline.
“On June 2, we are going on a nationwide strike. We do not want to hear any story from them. This has been a consistent problem for about five years now. All they give is an assurance, we don’t need that now,” he added.
The Association argues that its members, who are essential to frontline healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas, are being unfairly neglected.
Healthcare analysts have warned that the strike could place additional strain on Ghana’s already challenged health system, especially in the wake of recent pressures on medical infrastructure.
