The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced that the government has begun clearing outstanding salary arrears owed to 321 Pharmacist House Officers who completed their training in 2024.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series in Accra on Friday, July 18, Mr. Akandoh described the move as a major step toward addressing long-standing concerns within the health sector, particularly delayed payments and unemployment among trained health professionals.
“I am proud to share that we have taken decisive steps to clear the salary arrears for 321 Pharmacist House Officers who completed training in 2024, with payments now being processed,” the Minister said.
He acknowledged the financial and emotional strain faced by the affected pharmacists, many of whom had completed their mandatory housemanship but had waited months to receive their salaries.
Mr. Akandoh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to resolving such issues permanently, citing it as a key priority for the Ministry.
In addition to clearing arrears, the Minister disclosed that efforts are underway to recruit 1,621 qualified pharmacists who are currently awaiting permanent employment.
“While 1,621 qualified pharmacists await permanent employment, we are prioritising their recruitment as part of strengthening our health workforce,” he stated.
The initiative, according to the Minister, forms part of a broader national strategy aimed at addressing the backlog of unpaid and unemployed health professionals across all cadres.
“This is just one example of our broader commitment to clearing the backlog across all health worker cadres, ensuring every qualified professional has the chance to serve and strengthen Ghana’s health system,” he added.
The Health Minister’s comments come amid growing pressure on the government to address welfare concerns in the sector and ensure the timely deployment and remuneration of healthcare workers.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Nana Agyenim Boateng Sikapa
