In a surprise move, the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has directed its members to ignore Organised Labour’s call for a nationwide strike against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. The strike, scheduled to begin on October 10, aims to pressure the government into banning galamsey.

After an emergency meeting on October 8, GRNMA issued a statement instructing its members to report to work as usual. The association emphasized its commitment to delivering quality healthcare services to the public.

“The GRNMA and its members will not embark on the strike action declared by Organised Labour and therefore directs that all nurses and midwives stay at the post and continue delivering safe and quality health services to the good people of Ghana,” the statement read.

While opting out of the strike, GRNMA expressed solidarity with Organised Labour’s fight against galamsey. The association vowed to continue advocating for stronger national interventions to curb the illegal mining menace.

The Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA) has also advised its members to remain on the job, citing the essential nature of their services.

Organised Labour’s leadership is scheduled to meet on October 9 to finalize plans for the indefinite strike. The meeting will determine the next course of action.

Background

Galamsey has plagued Ghana for years, causing environmental degradation, water pollution, and economic losses. Organised Labour’s strike call follows the government’s failure to effectively address the issue.

As the situation unfolds, Ghanaians await the outcome of Organised Labour’s meeting and the government’s response to the galamsey crisis.