Ghanaian Nurses and Midwives (GRNMA) Warn of Potential Strike Over Unmet Commitments

The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has temporarily suspended its nationwide strike, which commenced on June 2 and was halted on June 13, following a series of constructive engagements with government representatives and the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health. Despite this truce, the association has issued a definitive warning: they are prepared to resume industrial action if the government fails to uphold its commitments to enhance the conditions of service for nurses and midwives.
Samuel Alagkora Akolgo, the First Vice President of the GRNMA, articulated this firm stance during an appearance on Newsfile on Saturday, June 14. He emphasized that the GRNMA's decision to suspend the strike was predicated on the government's pledges, and any failure to deliver on these promises would necessitate a resumption of the strike. This commitment to industrial action underscores the association's resolve to ensure their demands are met.
A primary point of contention and concern for the GRNMA is the government's indication that the estimated GH¢2 billion required to address the nurses' demands is not allocated in the current budget. This substantial sum is reportedly only projected to become available in 2026, a timeline that raises questions about the immediacy of the promised improvements. Despite this budgetary challenge, Akolgo expressed a degree of cautious optimism, stating his trust in the integrity of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health to honor the agreement reached during the negotiations.
The upcoming meeting scheduled for June 26 is poised to be a pivotal moment for both parties. This follow-up discussion will determine the path forward, either solidifying the current truce or leading to a reinstatement of the strike that previously disrupted healthcare services across the country. Akolgo refrained from prejudging the outcome, maintaining a focus on a positive resolution where the government "does the right thing for nurses and midwives to continue serving Ghanaians." However, he made it clear that the GRNMA's patience is not inexhaustible, reinforcing the prospect of renewed industrial action if commitments remain unfulfilled. The GRNMA's ongoing vigilance reflects their dedication to securing improved welfare for their members.