The leadership of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has announced the suspension of its nationwide industrial action, which began on June 2, 2025, after fruitful negotiations with the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health.
The decision to pause the strike follows growing public concern, widespread disruption of health services, and a commitment by Parliament to facilitate the long-awaited implementation of the nurses’ and midwives’ Collective Agreement.
Background to the Strike Action
The industrial action was triggered by what the GRNMA described as persistent delays by their employer—the Government of Ghana—in implementing the Collective Agreement signed in May 2024.
The Agreement outlines critical terms of service, including improved remuneration, allowances, working conditions, and professional development support for nurses and midwives across the country.
Despite repeated appeals and formal communication with relevant authorities, the GRNMA said that the government’s lack of urgency forced them to take action.
The association rolled out a phased roadmap beginning with symbolic protests such as the wearing of red armbands on June 2, 2025, followed by a withdrawal of Outpatient Department (OPD) and Emergency Services, culminating in a full-scale nationwide withdrawal of all nursing and midwifery services on June 9, 2025.
GRNMA Responds to Criticism and Reaffirms Commitment to Professionalism
In the face of rising misinformation and political commentary, the GRNMA issued a strong statement distancing itself from any political affiliations.
The Association emphasized its 65-year legacy of professional and non-partisan service, working collaboratively with successive governments since Ghana’s independence to strengthen the national health system.
“We are nurses and midwives trained to provide essential services to Ghanaians.
While we don’t take pleasure in the suffering of patients, we cannot care for others when the system consistently fails to care for us,” the statement noted.
The Association clarified that the strike was not politically motivated, but a necessary step taken in defense of its members’ rights and welfare.
Resolution Through Parliamentary Mediation
Following public appeals, patient advocacy, and mounting pressure on health facilities, the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health intervened and held discussions with GRNMA leadership and other stakeholders on Thursday, June 12, 2025.
The meeting was described by the GRNMA as “very fruitful,” paving the way for a constructive resolution to the impasse.
As a result of the parliamentary engagement, the Association has agreed to suspend the industrial action pending the outcome of a follow-up meeting scheduled for June 26, 2025.
Nurses and midwives have been directed to resume their duties on Saturday, June 14, 2025, across all healthcare facilities nationwide.
GRNMA’s Closing Remarks and Call for Media Responsibility
The Association expressed gratitude to the Parliamentary Committee—particularly its Chairman and Ranking Member—for their timely intervention.
They also acknowledged the commitment and unity demonstrated by the nursing and midwifery workforce throughout the strike period.
GRNMA further appealed to the press to continue acting responsibly in their coverage, urging them to counter misinformation and protect public discourse from politically charged narratives that misrepresent the motives behind professional labor actions.
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