Health Ministry to Announce Support Measures for Patients Amid GRNMA Strike

The Ministry of Health has confirmed holding a closed-door meeting with the leadership of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) and other stakeholders in a bid to resolve the ongoing nationwide strike by nurses and midwives.

Tony Goodman, the Public Relations Officer of the Ministry, disclosed the details during an appearance on the Ghana Se Sen Morning Show on Lawson TV/Radio earlier today.

According to Mr. Goodman, the meeting took place yesterday and focused on proposals to end the industrial action, which has significantly affected healthcare delivery across the country.

“We engaged the GRNMA yesterday, and the agreement was that they will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the new terms to take effect in 2026 and be included in the national budget,” Goodman stated.

However, consensus could not be reached. While the Ministry proposed a 2026 implementation timeline, the GRNMA countered with a demand to sign the agreement in 2026 and have it retroactively applied.

“That’s their proposal but consensus couldn’t be reached, so we advised them to present our position to their National Council.”

Despite the impasse, the Ministry pleaded with the GRNMA to suspend the strike in consideration of its impact on Ghanaians.

“Before the end of the meeting, we urged them to call off the strike because Ghanaians are suffering,” he added.

“But later, we heard on social media that they rejected the proposal and said they couldn’t call off the strike.”

The GRNMA declared the strike over the delayed implementation of the 2024 Collective Agreement, which outlines salaries, allowances, and improved working conditions for its members. The association has stated firmly that the strike will not end until their demands are fully met.

Mr. Goodman noted the Ministry is preparing to roll out emergency measures to support citizens who require healthcare during the strike.

“We will announce plans to assist Ghanaians who go to hospitals seeking care,” he said, acknowledging that the strike is already having a “negative effect” nationwide.

With over 130,000 nurses and midwives involved in the action, the Ministry stressed the financial and logistical implications of meeting the GRNMA’s demands.

“They are many,” Goodman remarked. “So if they say we have to add it to the budget, we need to carefully plan for it.”

The strike has entered its second week, with many hospitals operating at minimal capacity.

As negotiations continue, the Ministry has urged patience while expressing hope for a resolution that balances the needs of health workers and the country’s fiscal capabilities.