Ghana’s healthcare sector has been spared a looming crisis as the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has suspended its planned industrial action following fresh commitments from government negotiators.
The decision to step back from the strike threat was taken after a high-level meeting on Monday, July 15, 2025, involving the Ministry of Finance and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC).
GRNMA President Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo confirmed the suspension, citing “concrete assurances” received from government that addressed key concerns raised by the association.
Chief among these was the issue of fuel allowances, a long-standing demand by the association. Ofori-Ampofo disclosed that the Ministry of Finance had agreed to incorporate fuel allowances into the upcoming mid-year budget review, although the allowances will be tied to already approved government rates.
On the union’s request for an 8% increase in basic salary, the Ministry acknowledged the urgency of the matter but requested more time to explore implementation pathways. GRNMA said it was encouraged by the government’s openness to dialogue and review.
“The government has also agreed to re-examine unresolved items in our collective agreement,” Ofori-Ampofo noted, suggesting that further discussions are expected during the mid-year budget planning phase.
The Association had previously warned of a potential nationwide strike if government failed to address their conditions of service, including better remuneration and workplace support.
With tensions now eased, the GRNMA has indicated its commitment to continued engagement rather than confrontation—at least for the time being.
Observers say this development averts a potentially disruptive strike in the health sector and signals a return to constructive labour-government relations. However, GRNMA maintains it will keep a close watch on government’s delivery of the promises made.
