Ghana’s Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has assured that the government will soon clear all outstanding salaries owed to about 6,500 unpaid nurses across the country.

In a statement, the Minister expressed concern over the situation, stressing that “no worker should be engaged without valid financial clearance.”

He attributed the delay to the expiration of financial clearance that was granted in August 2024 to recruit 13,500 nurses, which lapsed in December 2024 before full payment arrangements were completed.

Mr. Akandoh explained that rather than keeping the nurses at home, the government allowed them to continue working while steps were taken to address their salary issues.

“So far, salaries for over 7,000 nurses have been processed, and the remaining 6,500 are expected to receive their payments soon,” the statement read.

The Minister further revealed that the Ministry of Health is collaborating with the Ministry of Finance to expedite the process and ensure full payment of the arrears.

He also recalled similar payment delays faced by pharmacists who began their housemanship in 2023, and medical house officers who started in 2024, noting that both groups have since been paid.

Additionally, rotation nurses and allied health interns who began service in 2024 but have not received their allowances have been assured that their cases are under review.

Mr. Akandoh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of health workers, saying, “The welfare of our healthcare professionals remains a top priority as we continue to strengthen Ghana’s health system.”