The Ghanaian government has announced plans to initiate payments for nursing trainee allowances with retroactive effect from January 2025, a decision that marks a significant shift in its previous stance. This announcement follows an unexpected change in policy by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), which, during its campaign, had expressed a strong opposition to the payment of these allowances.
During a recent Thank You Tour in the Bono East Region, President John Dramani Mahama assured nursing trainees of the government's commitment to fulfilling its promises. This statement was made on May 29, as the President visited the Kintampo Nursing Training College, where he was warmly received by students eager for updates on their long-awaited allowances.
“Let me assure you that the minister has made adequate provision in the budget for the payment of allowances. The allowances will start from January, and you will also receive the arrears owed to you,” President Mahama stated, offering much-needed reassurance to the students. He elaborated that the delayed payments were due to the establishment of a new system for disbursement through the Controller and Accountant-General’s office.
This new system aims to ensure timely monthly payments, aligning these allowances with the salary payments of regular workers. “So, when that is done, you’ll receive your allowances every month, and the arrears from January until the time you started receiving the allowances will also be disbursed,” he explained, highlighting the government's intent to streamline the payment process for trainees.
The President acknowledged the economic challenges facing Ghanaians and expressed gratitude toward the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and various drivers’ unions for their decision to reduce transport fares. This reduction, he emphasized, would alleviate some of the financial burdens on the citizenry amid ongoing economic difficulties.
In addressing other developmental matters, President Mahama reaffirmed the government’s focus on agricultural industrialization, particularly in the Bono East region, which is largely agrarian. He emphasized plans to enhance the value of crops such as cashew and other tree species. “The big push to open up the region remains a priority, and we are dedicated to seeing it through,” he stated.
The President noted that, in line with the government’s manifesto commitments, infrastructure development is also a significant focus. He announced plans for the redesign and construction of outer ring roads in major cities across the country, including Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Takoradi, Sunyani, and Techiman. He pointed out that work has already commenced on the proposed 54-kilometer outer ring road for Techiman, which serves as a crucial transit point along the N10 highway.
“Engineering surveys and design works have been initiated by the Department of Urban Roads to prepare for full construction,” President Mahama added, expressing optimism about the project’s future impact on urban transport.
Further addressing local governance, the President emphasized accountability among Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). He announced that the Minister of Finance is expected to release the first quarter of the District Assembly’s Common Fund soon, stating that 80% of these funds would be allocated directly to the regions, giving local authorities greater autonomy in their expenditure decisions.
“There will be no excuses for MMDCEs. You will receive your full allocation, and we are providing you with the guidelines on how the funds must be disbursed,” the President asserted, indicating that the government seeks to enhance governance and the efficient use of resources at the district level.
To ensure that MMDCEs remain accountable, President Mahama proposed using the performance of MMDCEs based on their utilization of the District Assembly’s Common Fund as Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). “Every year, we will review what has been done with the fund, and based on that assessment, we'll determine whether you remain in your positions or must be replaced,” he stressed, underscoring the government’s intent to fortify a culture of accountability and performance amongst local officials.
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As the government navigates these significant policy changes and development initiatives, it remains crucial for citizens to stay informed and engaged in discussions about the implications of these actions on their communities and the broader socio-economic landscape of Ghana.