In a significant development for Ghana’s health sector, the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has announced that three out of four critical allowances—book and research, uniform, and fuel—will be captured in the government’s upcoming mid-year budget.
At a press conference in Accra on July 16, GRNMA President Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo revealed that while the long-awaited allowances are finally being addressed, the 8% non-basic allowance has been temporarily suspended due to computational discrepancies.
“After extensive deliberation, it was agreed that the 8% non-basic allowance—intended to reflect the market premium of nurses and midwives—was affected by serious distortions. The employer has committed to urgently resolving this,” she said.
She clarified that the fuel allowance will be paid to eligible professionals at government-approved rates, not the ex-pump rate or the 10.99 rate outlined in the collective agreement. Additional items under Appendix B will be budgeted for in the 2026 national budget.
Mrs. Ofori-Ampofo also highlighted the employer’s commitment to avoid industrial unrest, with agreements made to continue professional development, licensure renewals, and eventual implementation of the 13th month allowance, medical support, and other provisions in the collective agreement.
Importantly, the GRNMA has suspended plans for a second nationwide strike, citing progress in negotiations and the government’s responsiveness.
“The National Council has decided to halt all intended industrial action pending the full implementation of the agreement. We assure our members that leadership will not rest until every aspect is delivered,” she affirmed.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Gumedzo Isaac Acheampong
