Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah Pledges Enhanced Support for Military Nurses to Bolster Ghana’s Health and Peacekeeping Efforts

The Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has reaffirmed the government's commitment to collaborating with the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) Health Services to enhance the welfare and professional development of military nurses and midwives. Speaking at the Military Nightingales’ Week Celebration 2026 held on September 14 at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra, the Deputy Minister emphasized that strengthening the training and career progression of these specialized healthcare providers remains a priority for the Ministry. The event served as a platform to recognize the unique dual role of military health personnel who serve both the civilian population and the nation’s defense interests.

Under the theme "Military Nightingales: Empowered to Serve with Excellence in Ghana and Peacekeeping Missions; To Save Lives for Our Future," Dr. Ayensu-Danquah highlighted the critical contributions of military nurses during domestic emergencies and international peacekeeping operations. She noted that their expertise in trauma care and emergency response is indispensable to the country’s healthcare infrastructure. By advocating for increased government support in terms of resources and advanced training, the Deputy Minister underscored the necessity of empowering these professionals to deliver high-quality care under the most demanding circumstances, whether in local hospitals or on the front lines of global missions.

The 37 Military Hospital was specifically lauded for its pivotal role as a center of excellence for health training and national development. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah commended the dedication of the nursing staff and midwives, acknowledging that their service is a cornerstone of both national health and security. The Ministry’s collaborative approach with the GAF is designed to ensure that these officers receive the specialized training required to handle complex medical scenarios that often go beyond the scope of traditional nursing, thereby ensuring the resilience of Ghana's health systems during crises.

As the government continues to modernize healthcare delivery, the integration of military discipline and medical expertise is viewed as a strategic asset. The Deputy Minister’s pledge marks a continued effort to bridge gaps in resources and provide a clear roadmap for the career growth of military nurses. Moving forward, this partnership between the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Armed Forces is expected to yield improved healthcare outcomes for the personnel of the armed forces and the general public alike, reinforcing Ghana's reputation for excellence in medical service within the West African sub-region and beyond.