Government Approves Payment of Salary Arrears for Nurses and Midwives in Ghana
Goku Justice - 26th February 2026
The Government of Ghana has approved the payment of long-outstanding salary arrears owed to nurses and midwives recruited during the 2024/2025 recruitment year, bringing relief to thousands of health workers across the country.
According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Health, negotiations on the matter have been successfully concluded after extensive engagements with the Ministry of Finance. The approval paves the way for the settlement of the arrears through a structured payment plan designed to ease fiscal pressure while ensuring that affected workers receive what is due them.
Under the approved arrangement, the outstanding salary arrears will be paid in four instalments spanning April to July 2026. The payment schedule indicates that two months’ arrears will be cleared in April, followed by three months each in May, June, and July. Government officials say this phased approach reflects a balance between fiscal responsibility and the urgent need to address the concerns of health workers.
The Ministry of Health noted that the structured payment plan demonstrates government’s firm commitment to clearing outstanding financial obligations in a timely, responsible, and sustainable manner. Officials emphasised that the decision aligns with broader efforts to stabilise public sector compensation while maintaining essential service delivery across the health sector.
Nurses and midwives affected by the arrears have endured months of financial strain, with many expressing frustration over delays in salary payments despite their critical role in healthcare delivery. The latest approval is therefore expected to significantly improve morale within the nursing and midwifery workforce, particularly among those posted to health facilities shortly after completing training.
In the statement, the Ministry of Health commended nurses and midwives for their patience, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to duty despite the challenges they faced. The Ministry acknowledged that delays in salary payments can have serious personal and professional consequences, especially for frontline health workers who play a central role in patient care, maternal health, and community wellbeing.
The Ministry also expressed sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Finance for giving the matter priority attention and treating it with the urgency it deserved. According to the statement, the collaboration between the two ministries was crucial in reaching a resolution that addresses the concerns of health workers while safeguarding the broader public interest.
Health sector analysts say the payment of the arrears could help reduce growing discontent within the profession and prevent potential industrial actions that could disrupt healthcare delivery. They also argue that timely compensation is essential for retaining skilled health workers and maintaining quality healthcare services, particularly in underserved areas.
Beyond the immediate payment plan, government reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare, motivation, and well-being of all health workers across the country. The Ministry of Health stressed that sustained investment in human resources for health remains a priority, as nurses and midwives form the backbone of Ghana’s healthcare system.
The press release was signed by Tony Goodman, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, and dated February 26, 2026. With the approval now granted, affected nurses and midwives are expected to begin receiving payments from April, marking an important step toward resolving one of the sector’s most pressing payroll concerns.
As implementation begins, many in the health sector will be watching closely to ensure that the payment schedule is honoured as announced, reinforcing trust between government and its healthcare workforce.
