I’m a proud farmer – Health Minister responds to GRNMA General Secretary

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has downplayed criticisms that suggest that his farming background makes him unfit to head the Health Ministry.

This follows remarks by the General Secretary of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association, Dr. David Tenkorang, who criticised the Health Minister’s response to the recent violence at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge).

Dr. Tenkorang suggested that the Minister lacked understanding of hospital dynamics because he is a farmer.

The Health Minister dismissed these comments during a press conference on Thursday, August 21, that was aimed at addressing his recent interaction with Ralph St. Williams, the man who was accused of allegedly assaulting a health professional at Ridge.

According to the minister, the suggestion that only people with medical training are qualified to serve as health ministers is misplaced.

Mr. Akandoh described the remarks about his background as a distraction intended to divert his attention from his duties.

He emphasised that the priority is to address the challenges within Ghana’s health system, rather than dwelling on personal backgrounds.

“I understand, on the more lighter note, I have been reminded of the fact that I am a farmer. Yes, nobody needs to remind me. I am a proud farmer, and everybody knows it. Until my appointment I was one of the largest rice farmers in this country. I am proud of that.

“Please, we have a lot to deliver, and some of these things will not divert our attention. We will continue to do our best for mother Ghana,” he said, responding directly to his critics.

Source: Citinewsroom