The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr. Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, has commended two health workers for their bravery and professionalism in helping a pregnant woman deliver safely under difficult conditions in a remote part of the Wa East District of the Upper West Region.

The two health workers – Senior Enrolled Nurse Iddris Abdul-Latif and Community Health Nurse Amissah Fiifi Yenli, both stationed at the Gudaayiri CHPS Compound – came to the aid of a pregnant woman who unexpectedly went into labour while travelling with her husband and companions.

Narrating the incident, Nurse Abdul-Latif explained that he encountered the group of Fulani herdsmen by the roadside after their motorbike had broken down.

Out of curiosity, he stopped to ask what had happened, only to learn that a pregnant woman had gone into labour nearby.

“I heard the woman crying in the bush,” he recounted.

“So we rushed in. There was nothing to use for protection, so we used our bare hands to receive the baby.”

The nurse further explained that, due to cultural beliefs, the Fulani men refused to assist during the delivery.

“They told us it was against their tradition to see the placenta or the umbilical cord,” he said.

“So we had to do everything ourselves, with help from one of the women.”

Deeply moved by their courage and commitment, Dr. Pelpuo praised the nurses, describing their actions as an inspiring demonstration of professionalism, humanity, and selfless service.

“When you do this kind of work, you serve two purposes – you serve your fellow human being, and you serve God,” the Minister said.

“We often wait to honour people after they die, but we must celebrate those who demonstrate dedication and sacrifice while they live.”

In recognising their extraordinary efforts, the minister rewarded them with GHS5,000.

“It’s not about the money,” he emphasised. “It’s about the fact that what you did must be copied.

We must all be encouraged to act selflessly in the service of others.”

Expressing his gratitude, Nurse Abdul-Latif thanked the Minister and gave glory to God for the successful delivery.

“It was the will of God that I was there to save the woman and her baby,” he said.

“I thank the Honourable Minister for the support, and I hope our leaders will continue to assist us with the tools we need to do our work effectively – especially delivery beds and basic medical equipment.”

Dr. Pelpuo also acknowledged the broader challenges facing frontline health workers, promising the government's continued support for health facilities across the country.

“If you had not stopped to help that woman, both she and the baby could have died,” he said.

“Your action saved lives, and for that, we are proud of you