The Government of Ghana has pledged to resolve the long-standing issue of unpaid salaries owed to thousands of nurses and midwives by including the arrears in the next national budget. This assurance was given by Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Ampem Nyarko following a protest staged by the Coalition of Unpaid Nurses and Midwives in Accra on October 2, 2025.
The coalition, representing nearly 7,000 health workers, marched from the Efua Sutherland Children’s Park to the Ministry of Finance and later to the Ministry of Health, demanding immediate payment of nine to ten months of salary arrears. Their petition highlighted the financial strain and demoralisation caused by the delays, which they argued were undermining healthcare delivery across the country.
Upon receiving the petition, Mr. Nyarko reiterated government’s commitment to resolving the matter. He explained that the administration had inherited “numerous legacy challenges” but was working diligently to address them. “The message I give them is what I’m giving to you: that your issue is being addressed. In the next month or so, the Finance Minister will be in Parliament to present a new budget. Issues of health workers who have not been paid, not just you, there are even some doctors and others, are seriously being considered, and you are going to receive your salary,” he assured.
The Deputy Minister also expressed gratitude to the nurses and midwives for their dedication despite the financial hardships. He apologised for the delays, acknowledging the sacrifices made by those who had even walked long distances to present their petition.
“ We appreciate the work that you do for Ghana, and I’m sorry for those of you who are not even well, but have had to walk all the way here to present this petition. It will be given the needed urgent attention, as you have stated, and you’ll hear back from us ”
The protest was led by the coalition’s convenor, Stephen Kwadwo Takyiah, who voiced the frustration of members. He described the situation as “unfair and
unsustainable,” stressing that the prolonged delays were not only demoralising health workers but also affecting the quality of care provided to patients nationwide. His remarks reflected the growing discontent among frontline health professionals who feel neglected despite their critical role in the healthcare system.
The government’s assurance to capture the arrears in the upcoming budget is seen as a crucial step toward restoring confidence among health workers. However, many remain cautious, awaiting concrete action when the Finance Minister presents the budget to Parliament in the coming weeks. The outcome will be closely watched, as it will signal the government’s commitment to addressing systemic payroll challenges in the health sector and ensuring that those who provide essential services are compensated fairly and on time.
Source: Citi Newsroom – Gov’t to capture nurses, midwives’ salary arrears in next budget citinewsroom.com
