The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, is calling for the immediate establishment of an independent mediation body to help resolve the escalating impasse between the government and striking nurses and midwives.

His appeal comes as the nationwide strike enters its fourth day, leaving hospitals overstretched and patients stranded across the country. Thousands of nurses and midwives have withdrawn their services in protest against delays in the implementation of their agreed Conditions of Service.

In an interview with JoyNews, the Minister expressed deep concern over the mounting pressure on the health system and urged all parties to return to the negotiation table.

“Our last meeting before they announced the road map, we agreed that all stakeholders must come together to see how we can implement the agreement,” the Minister said. “I understand the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission is willing to engage again on Monday.”

He stressed the need for neutrality in resolving the crisis, proposing an impartial body to guide the process. “We want to be very objective. An independent body should come in here—one that can look the Minister of Health or the Minister of Finance in the face and say, ‘This is your responsibility, let’s proceed accordingly,’” he stated.

Mr. Akandoh emphasized dialogue over confrontation, urging both sides to de-escalate tensions. “We are not here to intimidate anyone, and I pray that nobody intends to intimidate the government. Let’s sit together, have frank discussions, and find a solution.”

“Let’s massage our egos, set aside our emotions. We have lives to save, and we have a nation to run,” he added.

Despite the minister’s conciliatory tone, the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) remains resolute. General Secretary Dr. David Tenkorang reiterated that the strike would continue until the government begins implementing the agreed terms.

“We deal with the employer, and that employer hasn’t changed. Governments may come and go, but the Ministry of Health remains the same,” Dr. Tenkorang said.

He criticized the government’s delay in fulfilling the agreement, arguing that the demands are reasonable and overdue. “We’ve shown enough patience with this administration. These are issues that can be resolved easily. There’s no need for Ghanaians to suffer.”

Dr. Tenkorang also voiced concern over the growing number of nurses and midwives emigrating in search of better working conditions.

“Those who remain have chosen to sacrifice. They can also leave—but they stay because we must build Ghana together,” he said. “If there was ever a time for the government to show appreciation to nurses and midwives, it’s now.”

Source: myjoyonline.com