The Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA) has expressed its full support for the upcoming nationwide strike by organised labour against illegal mining but says the association will not participate.

In a press statement issued by the association on Wednesday, October 9, GHOSPA underscored its alignment with the concerns raised by the strike, particularly regarding the fight against illegal mining, commonly known as "galamsey."

GHOSPA emphasised the importance of collective action in tackling the galamsey crisis, noting that a unified effort between the government, organised labour, and civil society is crucial to finding a sustainable solution.

While GHOSPA acknowledged the pressing issues driving the strike, it also emphasised the essential role pharmacists and pharmacy technicians play in delivering healthcare services to Ghanaians.

"As part of the essential workforce, we are dedicated to ensuring that healthcare delivery remains consistent, even amid industrial disputes. 

GHOSPA's decision appears to be in line with the position taking by the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) not to participate in the strike.

• Read also: Galamsey: We stand in solidarity but won’t join Oct. 10 strike – GMA to Organised Labour

"Thus, even though GHOSPA will not be joining the countrywide strike, we fully support the organized labour's requests and call on the government to promptly tackle the issue of galamsey," part of the statement read.

Despite their decision not to join the strike, GHOSPA urged all political parties to agree to a pact that promises a thorough and lasting resolution to swiftly address the galamsey issue.

The association has instructed all pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to continue their duties until further communication from leadership.

"GHOSPA continues to be firmly dedicated to the well-being of the people of Ghana and the safeguarding of our environment," the statement added.