Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has issued an impassioned plea to retired nurses and midwives, urging them to temporarily return to work as Ghana’s healthcare system buckles under an ongoing strike.
“Given the urgency of the situation and the suffering of patients,” Akandoh stressed at Tuesday’s press briefing, “we’re appealing to public-spirited retired nurses and midwives to volunteer their service during this critical period.”
The Minister framed the request as a stopgap measure while negotiations continue with striking workers.
Akandoh maintained the government’s commitment to resolving the impasse, stating: “We remain dedicated to ongoing dialogue with the nurses to find a mutually acceptable solution that protects public health.”
His appeal came just days after ministry officials held emergency talks with Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association leaders on June 9.
The nationwide strike has left hospitals severely understaffed, with patients reporting delayed treatments and overwhelmed wards.
While the government hasn’t specified how many retirees have responded to the call, the unusual request underscores the crisis’ severity as both sides struggle to reach agreement.
