Minister of Health Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has expressed deep concern over the growing number of unemployed health professionals in Ghana, warning that the figure could rise to 180,000 by the end of 2028 if urgent measures are not implemented.
Currently, about 74,000 trained but unemployed health workers are seeking placement across the country. However, with thousands more expected to graduate from various health training institutions each year, the situation is projected to worsen.
“By the end of 2026, we expect an additional 23,000 graduates. In 2027, about 35,000 more will join, and by the end of 2028, another 47,000. If no recruitments are made during this period, we will have no fewer than 180,000 unemployed trained professionals by 2028,” the Minister explained.
To tackle the challenge, Mr. Akandoh said the government has begun implementing a gradual recruitment plan and is exploring international employment opportunities for Ghanaian health workers.
“There is a strategy in place. The government will continue to recruit gradually as we move forward,” he assured.
The Minister further revealed that Ghana is pursuing what he described as “managed migration”, collaborating with about 13 countries interested in employing Ghanaian health professionals. However, he noted that most of these countries are specifically seeking specialist practitioners, which presents additional challenges.
Mr. Akandoh estimated that approximately GHS 6 billion would be required annually to clear the current backlog of unemployed health workers.
His comments come amid growing agitation from unemployed nurses and midwives demanding postings, as well as criticism from the Minority in Parliament over the government’s handling of employment within the health sector.
