The nurses touched down at the Grantley Adams International Airport as part of an ongoing collaboration aimed at tackling the nursing shortage in the Caribbean nation. Accompanied by Ghana’s Deputy Minister of Health, Adelaide Ntim, the group was received by Barbados’ Minister of Health and Wellness, Senator Dr. The Most Honourable Jerome Walcott, along with other dignitaries.
This arrival marks the third cohort of Ghanaian nurses to join the Barbadian healthcare workforce since a unique partnership began in 2020. The first group of 95 nurses came during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by another 120 nurses in 2022. Many of these healthcare professionals have chosen to make Barbados their permanent residence, contributing significantly to the local health services.
Minister Walcott highlighted the important roles these new nurses will play in various specialist departments at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and across primary care facilities managed by the Ministry of Health and Wellness.
He stated, “We’re looking for these nurses to help improve the overall delivery of our healthcare,” emphasizing the expected benefits of their expertise in critical areas such as cardiology, emergency services, midwifery, psychiatric medicine, and geriatrics.
Deputy Minister Ntim expressed satisfaction with the ongoing partnership, pointing out Ghana's surplus of trained nurses who often struggle to find employment. She noted that the previous cohorts had already showcased their skills and dedication to the Barbadian healthcare system.
“The nurses from the previous cohorts have demonstrated their capability and dedication,” she remarked, expressing confidence in the incoming group’s ability to provide high-quality service.
