Ghana’s Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced a 20% increase in base pay for nurses and midwives who accept postings to deprived and rural communities to improve healthcare access in underserved areas.
Speaking at the induction of a new rector and an inauguration ceremony of the Ghana College of Nurses and Midwives (GCNM) at the University of Ghana Business School, in Accra, the minister emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing disparities in healthcare delivery by providing incentives for medical professionals working in hard-to-reach regions.
“We recognize the critical role nurses and midwives play in our healthcare system, and we must ensure they are motivated to serve in communities where they are needed most,” he stated.
He admitted that working conditions in some of these facilities in deprived areas are deplorable but assured that steps are being taken to address the situation.
The initiative comes in response to longstanding concerns over the shortage of healthcare workers in rural areas, where many professionals decline postings due to poor infrastructure, lack of amenities, and limited career growth opportunities.
He said the 20% salary increase is expected to attract and retain more nurses and midwives in these communities, ultimately improving patient care and health outcomes.
In addition to the salary increment, the government is exploring other incentives such as housing support, improved working conditions, and career development programs to make rural postings more attractive.
The minister assured stakeholders that efforts are being made to address logistical challenges, including inadequate medical supplies and transportation difficulties, which have historically deterred healthcare professionals from staying in rural areas.
Meanwhile, the newly inducted Rector of the Ghana College of Nurses and Midwives, Dr. Mrs. Gloria Chempeh Manso, assured of the continuous training of nurses to enhance quality healthcare delivery.
She emphasized that building a well-equipped and skilled nursing workforce is essential to addressing Ghana’s healthcare challenges.
She also pledged to continue some of the laudable initiatives introduced by her predecessor, aimed at strengthening nursing education and professional development.
Dr. Manso reaffirmed the college’s commitment to producing competent nurses and midwives to support the country’s health sector.
