The Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, is urging the immediate formation of an independent mediation body to help resolve the deepening standoff between the government and striking nurses and midwives.

The call comes as the nationwide industrial action enters its fourth day, leaving many hospitals overwhelmed and patients stranded.

Thousands of nurses and midwives have withdrawn their services in protest over delays in implementing their agreed Conditions of Service.

Speaking to JoyNews, Mr. Akandoh expressed grave concern over the impact of the strike on public health and stressed the urgency of reaching a consensus.

• Read also: Strike by nurses disrupts healthcare services across Ghana

“Our last meeting before they declared the road map, we agreed that all the stakeholders must come together and see how we can all implement this thing,” he said.

“Yesterday, a similar thing happened. So I'm even informed that the Fair Wages [Commission] on Monday is also willing."

He continued, “We want to be very objective. An independent body should come in here. The independent body will be able to look into the face of the Minister of Health or Minister of Finance and say, ‘You are supposed to do this, so let's go this route.’”

Mr. Akandoh emphasised the need for cooperation rather than confrontation.

“We are not ready to intimidate anybody, and I pray and hope that nobody is also prepared to intimidate the government. Let's sit around the table, find a solution to the matter, and have frank discussions.”

Appealing to both sides to lower tensions, the minister added: “Let’s massage our egos, let’s put our emotions aside. We have Ghanaians to protect. We have Ghanaians to save their lives. We have an economy to run.”

However, the Registered Nurses and Midwives Association remains firm in its demands. The General Secretary, Dr. David Tenkorang, insists the strike will only be called off once the government begins implementing the agreed Conditions of Service.

“We deal with employer. The employer is the same. Government may change, but the employer is the same,” he said.

“The Ministry of Health hasn't changed, but the government has changed hands. It doesn't mean that whatever agreement was reached with the employer should be curtailed.”

He emphasised the urgency of the situation and the sacrifices made by healthcare workers.

“I think that we have had enough patience for this administration. These are demands that can easily be met, and I don't see why they should drag this,” he argued.

“There is no need to see to the demise of any Ghanaian. We are ready to work and protect our people. Even during COVID, we stood solidly and we provided essential services. If there’s any time the employer should reward nurses and midwives, it's now.”

Dr. Tenkorang also raised concerns over the increasing number of trained nurses and midwives leaving the country for better opportunities.

“Those who are remaining have sacrificed. They can also travel. But the thing is, all of us cannot leave. We need to remain in Ghana, to build Ghana together.”