Antigua and Barbuda’s government has formally justified its decision to recruit nurses from Ghana, emphasizing pragmatic healthcare considerations over political motives. Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph presented a multi-faceted rationale during a recent media briefing, highlighting three core factors: proven regional experience, English-language proficiency, and high-quality medical training.
Minister Joseph revealed that Ghanaian nurses already have an established track record within Caribbean healthcare systems, specifically in The Bahamas and Barbados. Positive performance reports from these regional postings provided the foundational confidence that Ghanaian medical staff would integrate seamlessly into Antigua and Barbuda’s health infrastructure and meet stringent professional standards.
Addressing potential language barrier concerns, the Minister pointed to Ghana’s historical and educational background. ‘Ghana was a colony like Antigua and Barbuda — only British,’ Joseph stated, adding, ‘I assure you that they are quite capable of speaking the King’s language.’ This shared colonial history under British rule ensures that Ghanaian healthcare professionals are trained in English-speaking environments, facilitating clear communication in medical settings.
The Minister further challenged any perceptions of inferior medical training standards in African nations. ‘Africa has produced some of the most outstanding doctors and nurses now applying their trade in the world,’ Joseph asserted, noting that many Ghanaian medical professionals currently serve in major metropolitan centers including New York and London. He emphasized their contributions to highly specialized medical fields and research at prestigious international institutions, with many holding advanced qualifications and patents.
The recruitment initiative represents a dual approach to addressing nursing shortages: importing immediately available qualified staff while concurrently developing domestic capabilities through expanded nurse training programs at the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus. The government maintains that patient care standards will remain uncompromised throughout this transitional period of workforce stabilization.