The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has strongly condemned the assault of a senior staff midwife by relatives of a patient at Community 22 Polyclinic, describing the incident as a criminal attack on a healthcare professional and a troubling reflection of the growing threats faced by nurses and midwives across Ghana.
The Association says the incident, which occurred while the midwife was carrying out her professional duties, underscores the urgent need for stronger security measures in healthcare facilities and tougher action against violence directed at health workers.
Speaking on the matter, GRNMA President, Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo (FWAPCNM, FGCNM), stated that no nurse, midwife, or healthcare worker should be subjected to intimidation, threats, harassment, or physical assault while providing essential healthcare services.
“Healthcare facilities must remain places of healing, compassion, and safety—not environments where nurses and midwives fear for their lives and personal security while performing their duties,” she said.
GRNMA Demands Immediate Action
The Association is calling on the management of Community 22 Polyclinic to urgently strengthen security arrangements within the facility to protect staff and prevent similar incidents.
Among the measures being demanded are:
- Increased security presence at critical service points.
- Strict visitor management and access control systems.
- Rapid response protocols for incidents involving violence against staff.
- Installation and maintenance of surveillance systems.
- Regular security risk assessments and staff protection measures.
Call for National Action
GRNMA also urged the Ministry of Health, Ghana Health Service, Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG), teaching hospitals, and other health sector agencies to prioritise the safety and security of healthcare workers.
The Association is demanding:
- The development and enforcement of a national policy on preventing workplace violence in healthcare settings.
- Increased investment in security infrastructure across health facilities.
- Effective reporting and support systems for victims of workplace violence.
- Strong sanctions against perpetrators of violence against healthcare workers.
Renewed Call for Ratification of ILO Convention 190
According to the Association, the assault highlights the urgent need for Ghana to ratify and implement the International Labour Organization’s Convention 190 on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work.
GRNMA noted that the convention provides a comprehensive framework for preventing and addressing workplace violence and harassment, including in healthcare settings.
The Association called on government, Parliament, employers, labour unions, and other stakeholders to expedite efforts towards ratification and implementation of the convention.
Police Urged to Prosecute Perpetrators
GRNMA has further called on the Community 22 Police Station to expedite investigations into the incident and ensure that all individuals responsible are identified, arrested, prosecuted, and brought to justice.
The Association believes swift action will not only deliver justice for the assaulted midwife but also serve as a deterrent to others who may contemplate similar acts.
Appeal to the Public
The Association appealed to the public to refrain from violence, threats, and aggression against nurses and midwives, stressing that healthcare professionals often work under difficult conditions and make significant sacrifices to save lives.
It encouraged patients and their families to use established complaint and grievance mechanisms to address concerns rather than resorting to violence.
Solidarity with Nurses and Midwives
GRNMA acknowledged the anger and concern the incident has generated within the nursing and midwifery profession and urged members to remain calm and professional while investigations continue.
The Association reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing justice for the affected midwife and advocating stronger protections for healthcare workers nationwide.
“An attack on one nurse or midwife is an attack on the entire nursing and midwifery profession. We will continue to stand united in defending the rights, safety, and dignity of every nurse and midwife in Ghana,” the statement concluded.
By Sampson Kumah Ifeetwube Elvis
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