The Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, says the current Nurses’ Conditions of Service was not included in the 2025 budget and could impact the economy if implemented immediately.
Speaking on the matter at the Presidency, the minister stated that the immediate implementation of the agreement in its present state would throw the economy off balance and create serious financial challenges for the country.
“We wish to draw attention to the fact that the conditions under reference are not captured in the 2025 budget and will completely throw the economy off gear if implemented immediately in the manner it currently exists,” he said.
He however emphasized the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of nurses but stressed the need to approach the matter in a fiscally responsible manner.
“The government will again stress its readiness to further engage with the view of implementing the conditions of service in a manner that does not dislocate the national budget.”
His statement follows the ongoing nationwide strike by members of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA). They are demanding improved service conditions.
The minister called for further dialogue with stakeholders to reach a resolution that addresses the concerns of nurses without putting undue pressure on the economy.
On his part, Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, also stated that the Finance Ministry is ready to demonstrate its commitment to resolving the issue.
He noted that there are over 120,000 nurses across the country and that implementing the current conditions of service as demanded would have serious consequences for the national budget.
