Ghana's Ministry of Health has cleared salary arrears for over 99% of the 13,500 nurses and midwives recruited in 2024. This significant development follows sustained engagement between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Finance to resolve outstanding payments.
The affected health professionals had commenced work without receiving the necessary financial clearance, leading to a difficult situation. Instead of revoking their appointments, the Ministry of Health opted to retain them. It then worked diligently with the Ministry of Finance to secure the required funding for their salaries.
This resolution is crucial for Ghana's public finance and labour stability within the health sector. Unpaid salaries can lead to low morale and potential industrial action, impacting healthcare delivery. Addressing these arrears helps maintain a stable workforce and ensures essential services continue uninterrupted across the country.
The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, explained that financial clearance has now been secured for all 13,500 workers. He stated that only a few isolated cases remain to be resolved. Mr. Akandoh has directed the Human Resource Directorate to expedite action on these outstanding payments.
This action has significant implications for future recruitment and the overall management of public sector employment. The Ministry has instructed health-sector agencies to fast-track the issuance of appointment letters and the mechanisation of newly recruited health professionals. This measure aims to ensure timely salary processing and prevent a recurrence of such arrears.
Looking ahead, the government plans to recruit an additional 16,000 health professionals in 2026. Financial clearance has already been secured for the first 8,000 of these new recruits. The Minister assured that clearance for the remaining 8,000 will be obtained before recruitment begins. This proactive approach seeks to avoid future payment delays and maintain a motivated healthcare workforce.
The Coalition of Unpaid Nurses and Midwives of Ghana commended the Minister for his intervention. Stephen Kwadwo Takyia, President of the Coalition, expressed appreciation for the Ministry's efforts. The Coalition members are optimistic that, with payment challenges largely addressed, they will soon drop the 'Unpaid' from their name.
Mr. Akandoh also urged newly recruited health professionals to report to their assigned facilities by August 20, 2026. He warned that failure to report by this deadline could result in the loss of their appointments. He further encouraged health workers to serve with dedication and treat patients with respect, emphasising patient-centred care.
This resolution underscores the government's commitment to addressing labour concerns and ensuring the smooth functioning of essential public services. It also highlights the importance of proper financial planning and coordination between ministries for effective public sector management.