The government has tasked the Minister for Finance and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) with developing a comprehensive roadmap for implementing the 2024 Collective Agreement for nurses and midwives.

This follows ongoing tensions between the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) and the government over the enforcement of improved conditions of service as outlined in the agreement.

Addressing the media on Tuesday, 10th June, Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, reiterated the government's willingness to engage the striking nurses to find a balanced resolution that upholds both the well-being of health workers and the integrity of the national budget.

“Government remains committed to the needed engagement that will lead to the approval and implementation of the new conditions of service for nurses and midwives,” he stated. “Accordingly, the government has directed the Minister of Finance and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission to, as a matter of urgency, lead the development of a roadmap to ensure a smooth implementation of the process.”

He noted, however, that the agreement had not been factored into the 2025 Budget, and implementing it in its current form could destabilise the economy.

The GRNMA began its strike to push for the enforcement of provisions under the 2024 Collective Agreement, including unpaid allowances, delayed postings, and other key benefits. The industrial action has significantly disrupted healthcare delivery across the country.

Key provisions in the agreement include a 13th-month salary, fuel and medical allowances, rural incentive bonuses, and coverage for the renewal of practising licences.

The Health Minister called for calm and assured that the government remains open to dialogue with the union to reach a practical and fiscally responsible outcome.