Improve working conditions of nurses to curb high attrition rate - Obuasi East GRNMA

Douglas Addai, the Obuasi East chairman of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), has expressed concern over the challenging working conditions of nurses and midwives in Ghana.

Speaking at the second annual week celebration of the Obuasi East GRNMA, Mr. Addai highlighted the country's failure to acknowledge the efforts and contributions of nurses, which has led to a significant attrition rate among healthcare personnel.

"It is regrettable that the country is losing experienced and hardworking nurses to foreign lands. This situation did not occur by accident but is the result of years of undervaluing nurses and a lack of respect and recognition for their efforts," he stated.

Mr. Addai emphasized that many nurses prefer to remain in the country and work but require the government to provide a conducive environment and the right incentives to encourage them to stay.

Government's Efforts
Dr. Patrick Boakye Yiadom, the Member of Parliament for the Obuasi West constituency and the guest of honor for the celebration, addressed the government's efforts to retain nurses. He noted that the government acknowledges the critical contributions of nurses and midwives and has approved new conditions of service for them.

He urged nurses to appreciate the government's efforts and the investments made in them, highlighting projects like Agenda 111, which aims to construct 111 health facilities across the country, creating employment opportunities for more nurses and other healthcare personnel.

"Over the years, the government has supported health personnel in the country, rolling out numerous programs and interventions to encourage and motivate nurses to stay and work. We are leaving nothing to chance," he emphasized.

Dr. Enyonam Kwawukume, the Obuasi East health director, commended the efforts of nurses and midwives in the district. She emphasized their commitment to healthcare delivery, particularly during the COVID-19 outbreak. She acknowledged that some health personnel have left the country in search of better opportunities but assured that the health directorate has implemented measures to address the situation and maintain a good nurse-to-patient ratio.

Awards
Several nurses and midwives were recognized for their hard work. Abigail Ntuwala Logi of the AGA Health Foundation was named the best worker for 2023, receiving a tabletop fridge. Abigail, who recently won the Ashanti Regional Best Worker Award, will represent the regional GRNMA in the national contest.

The first runner-up, Suberatu Mumuni of Bryant Mission Hospital, received a 10-liter air fryer, while Rabiatu Abubakari, also from Bryant Mission Hospital, came in third and was awarded a 6-liter air fryer.