GRNMA warns members against using unlicensed recruitment agencies for jobs abroad

The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has issued a warning to its members against using unlicensed recruitment agencies to secure employment abroad. The Association is concerned that the rising prevalence of illegal recruitment agents is putting vulnerable Ghanaian health professionals at risk of exploitation, abuse and unfair treatment in destination countries.

In 2025 alone, over 10,000 nurses and midwives emigrated from Ghana, with about 1,000 leaving the country each month between January and August 2026. This mass exodus is straining the country's already overburdened health system, as fewer professionals remain to serve patients. GRNMA President Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo expressed alarm at the situation, noting that it is causing increased workloads, burnout, and compromised decision-making among health workers, ultimately impacting patient care.

The Association is also calling for greater transparency regarding bilateral agreements Ghana has signed with other nations seeking to recruit health professionals. These agreements, which are currently not publicly accessible, should be made readily available online. The Association is particularly worried about nurses and midwives who become victims of unlicensed recruitment agencies promising them opportunities abroad.

It urges its members to verify the legitimacy of any recruitment agency before engaging their services and offers to assist with this verification process. Meanwhile, the Association reports that over 80,000 nurses and midwives are currently waiting for assignments, and it is urging the Ministry of Finance to release the necessary financial clearance to enable the government to post these professionals.

Addressing the backlog and improving working conditions could help alleviate the pressure on Ghana's health system and prevent further loss of skilled health professionals to other countries.