Rafiq Adam
The Upper West Regional Minister, Charles Lwanga Puozuing, has reaffirmed the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s commitment to improving the welfare of nurses and midwives, stressing the need for both enhanced state support and sustained professional accountability within the sector.
Speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the maiden conference of the Upper West Branch of the Union of Professional Nurses and Midwives in Wa, Mr. Puozuing underscored the critical role nurses and midwives play in Ghana’s healthcare system.
Addressing the theme, “Who Cares for the Caregiver—The Plight of the Ghanaian Nurse,” he described nurses and midwives as the backbone of healthcare delivery, noting that they continue to work under demanding conditions, including long hours, emotional strain and inadequate resources.
Mr. Puozuing said prioritising the welfare of healthcare professionals was essential to building a resilient and effective health system.
“It is in this regard that I wish to reaffirm the commitment of the NDC government, as articulated in its 2024 manifesto, to improving the conditions of service for nurses and midwives across the country,” he stated.
He outlined key government priorities, including improved remuneration, expanded training opportunities, upgraded health infrastructure and enhanced mental health support for healthcare workers.
The conference brought together nurses, health sector unions and key stakeholders to deliberate on challenges confronting the profession and explore solutions to improve working conditions.
Acting Regional President of the union, Kenneth Naaeder, urged members to uphold professionalism despite the difficulties they face, emphasising the importance of maintaining high standards of care.
National President of the Union of Professional Nurses and Midwives, Maxwell Oduro Yeboah, also called for urgent interventions to improve welfare policies, describing nurses as the backbone of the health sector.
“If we are healthy, we are strong and happy, we will deliver very well. We are calling on all stakeholders to improve our welfare and take good care of the caregivers,” he said.
The conference marks a significant step in amplifying the concerns of nurses and midwives in the Upper West Region, while reinforcing calls for coordinated efforts to address their welfare and working conditions.
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