President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the government will recruit 16,000 nurses in two batches as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved communities.
According to the President, the first batch of 8,000 nurses will be recruited soon, followed by another 8,000, to ensure newly trained nurses are employed without long delays.
Speaking at the launch of the Free Primary Healthcare Programme at the Ho Municipal Hospital on Thursday, July 16, President Mahama said the initiative forms part of the government’s commitment to improving healthcare and addressing staffing gaps across the country.
“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,” he said.
“However, the condition is that many of those being recruited will be sent to underserved areas where healthcare needs are greatest,” he added.
The President urged nurses and other health professionals to emulate the commitment of Florence Nightingale by serving wherever they are needed and providing compassionate care to patients.
He also assured health workers that government remained committed to improving their conditions of service as the economy recovers.
“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.
President Mahama commended the management and staff of the Ho Municipal Hospital for their century of service, describing health professionals as one of the most important groups in society because of the critical role they play in caring for Ghanaians.
