President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the government will recruit 16,000 nurses in two phases to strengthen healthcare delivery, with a particular focus on improving services in underserved communities.
Speaking at the launch of the Free Primary Healthcare Programme at the Ho Municipal Hospital on Thursday, July 16, the President said the recruitment drive is part of the government’s broader efforts to address staffing shortages and ensure newly qualified nurses are employed without prolonged delays.
He explained that the first batch of 8,000 nurses will be recruited in the coming months, followed by another 8,000.
“We are therefore providing clearance for the recruitment of 16,000 nurses in two batches. The first batch will be 8,000 nurses, followed by another 8,000, so that young people completing their training will not have to wait for long periods before being posted,” President Mahama said.
He noted, however, that many of the newly recruited nurses would be posted to underserved areas where healthcare needs are most pressing.
“The condition is that many of those being recruited will be sent to underserved areas where healthcare needs are greatest,” he added.
President Mahama also encouraged nurses and other health professionals to emulate the dedication and compassion of Florence Nightingale by serving wherever they are assigned and providing quality care to patients.
He further assured health workers that the government remains committed to improving their conditions of service as Ghana’s economy continues to recover.
“I have assured the Minister that as the economy continues to improve, we will continue to work towards improving your conditions of service so that you are encouraged and motivated to continue the important work you do,” he said.
The President also commended the management and staff of the Ho Municipal Hospital for their century of service, describing health professionals as one of the most vital groups in society because of their indispensable role in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of Ghanaians.
