Celebrating International Nurses’ Day: A Day of Solidarity and Advocacy
May 23, 2024: “I cannot stress enough the need for salary increments and revised allowances. Minister, you know well that these are concerns we have tirelessly brought to your attention”
The 2024 International Nurses’ Day (IND) was a remarkable event, marked by a blend of celebration and ongoing advocacy for better working conditions for nurses/midwives. The festivities began with a solidarity march from Mzuzu Central Hospital, proceeding via the Petroda fueling station, and culminating at the Luwinga FAM Stadium where a series of planned activities unfolded.
In a keynote speech, guest of honour, Honourable Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda, MP, and Minister of Health, reassured the healthcare professionals of the government’s efforts to address their concerns, highlighting the recent mass recruitment of nurses and midwives as a significant step forward.
“You should be aware that the government has conducted mass recruitment of nurses using funding which was secured from Global Fund. This is a significant milestone in our healthcare system.”
Chiponda also took the opportunity to address issues of professionalism, urging nurses and midwives to maintain high standards of patient care and avoid behaviors that could tarnish their reputation. However Chiponda did not say anything on allowances which is the hottest issue presently.
Shouts Simeza, President of the National Organization of Nurses and Midwives (NONM), also spoke at the event. While he expressed gratitude for the recent recruitment efforts, he emphasized that many issues remained unresolved.
“We have repeatedly appealed to the government to promote nurses, as many have been stuck in the same positions for too long, which is demotivating,” Simeza said.
I cannot stress enough the need for salary increments and revised allowances. Minister, you know well that these are concerns we have tirelessly brought to your attention.”
This year’s International Nurses’ Day was celebrated under the theme: “Our Nurses. Our Future. The Economic Power of Care.” The theme underscored the critical role that nurses and midwives play in the healthcare system and the broader economy, advocating for their essential contributions to be recognized and appropriately rewarded.