About NARM, Ghana

The National Association of Registered Midwives, Ghana (NARM, GH) is dedicated to promoting excellence, advancing the profession of midwifery, and ensuring quality reproductive and maternal healthcare for all women in Ghana.
National Association of Registered Midwives, Ghana has been widely recognized in Ghana and within the international corridors as a dedicated, unique and outstanding midwifery association.
It fundamentally has a broad and distinct vision on the growth and professional development of all midwives in Ghana and the sub African region It network and coordinate key activities in sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health, focusing on accessibility and utilization of quality maternal and newborn care. It is build, exclusively on a very concrete ethical governance structure with a profound and highly committed membership’s portfolio.

Our History

The National Association of Registered Midwives, Ghana (NARM, GH) has a rich history spanning nearly a century—from the early days of male-led community midwifery, to becoming one of the most influential professional bodies advocating for midwives’ welfare, education, and policy representation in Ghana.

1925 — Scientific Midwifery Begins

Male medical officers introduce organized midwifery practice.

1935 — First Association Formed

The Private Midwives Association emerges.

2001 — Direct Midwifery Training Launched

Sekondi begins first direct diploma midwifery program.

2010–2011 — Introduction of Degree Programs

UCC & KNUST launch first midwifery degree programmes.

2014–2016 — NARM, GH Established as Trade Union

Receives bargaining certificate to represent midwives nationally.

Vision

To ensure that the practice of midwifery is a recognized profession and that reproductive health and well-being is guaranteed for all women in Ghana.

Mission

To project the image of the midwifery profession and to make comprehensive midwifery services available and accessible to every childbearing woman in Ghana at all times and at all levels.

Strategic Objectives

Education & Training

Advocate to ensure midwives receive the highest education and training.

CPD & Capacity Building

Develop CPD programs to ensure efficiency, confidence and professionalism.

Best Midwifery Practices

Promote best practices to sustain quality maternal and child healthcare.

Welfare & Support

Implement welfare systems for all midwives in the public health sector.

What is NARM, GH?

The National Association of Registered Midwives, Ghana (NARM, GH), formerly known as the Midwives Group and later Government Registered Midwives Association, is made up of practicing midwives in the public health sector of Ghana.

NARM, GH Exists To:

Secure, protect and promote the interests of its members.
Advocate for professional advancement of practicing midwives.
Ensure midwifery is recognized and reproductive health is guaranteed for all women.

Achievements

Expanded grading system for midwives to Principal Midwifery Officer level.

Introduced direct midwifery training — now across the entire country.

Advocated for introduction of midwifery degree programs at UCC & KNUST.

Achieved national recognition for midwifery as a distinct profession.

Revised job descriptions for public sector midwives to reflect expanded roles.

Received accreditation to provide CPD programs nationwide.

Acquired land for office and training center projects.

Participated in 2023 base pay negotiation.

Renewed PINs for all members.

Provided souvenirs to members nationwide.

Became an affiliate of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) Ghana.

Expectations

Commitment to improving maternal & child health nationwide.
Build cordial working relationships with all stakeholders.
Active involvement in maternal & child health activities nationally.
Collaborate with UNFPA, GRMA and other partners to reduce maternal deaths.
Improve family planning services and provide informed counseling.

Background

Midwifery has long played a crucial role in Ghana’s healthcare—supporting antenatal care, deliveries, postnatal care and reproductive health. Historically, childbirth assistance evolved from traditional family-based support to scientific midwifery in the early 20th century.

Early Midwifery in Ghana (1920s–1930s)

Scientific midwifery began around 1925, pioneered by male medical officers who delivered mothers at home. They were soon joined by two trained male midwives—Cole Benjamin and St. John Williams. By 1932, the Central Midwives Board was established, and the first cohort of licensed midwives emerged.

Growth & Expansion (1930s–1970s)

More women joined the profession, and midwifery training schools opened in Koforidua and Kumasi in 1964, followed by Hohoe and Bolgatanga in 1972. Despite these advancements, public sector midwives continued to face limited welfare support, lack of promotion pathways and poor representation.

Challenges Facing Public Sector Midwives

Absence of a strong trade union to negotiate conditions of service
No clear career progression or salary structure
Many midwives remained on the same rank for over 20 years
Working conditions were difficult, with poor health and safety standards

Rise of Advocacy (1990s–2001)

Midwives at Korle Bu led a movement to address systemic issues. Multiple petitions were submitted to the Ministry of Health, resulting in promotions and policy reviews. A major milestone was the introduction of the Direct Diploma Midwifery Programme in 2001, piloted with 18 students in Sekondi.

Formation of a New Association

The group evolved into a national body, formally registered as the Government Registered Midwives Association. The Ministry of Health recognized it as the legitimate voice for public sector midwives regarding welfare, career pathways and professional development.

Major Achievements of the Association

Advocated for introduction of degree programmes at UCC (2010) and KNUST (2011)
Facilitated establishment of Senior and Principal Midwifery Superintendent grades
Negotiated the restructuring of midwifery ranks to Midwifery Officer grades

Becoming NARM, GH (2014–2016)

In March 2014, the association was renamed to National Association of Registered Midwives, Ghana to reflect its national identity and include CHAG midwives. By July 2015, it became a recognized trade union, receiving full bargaining certification in August 2016.

Today

NARM, GH now has over 7,200 members, operates through regional and national executive committees, and leads advocacy, education, welfare support and professional development initiatives across Ghana.

Philosophy & Goals

Promoting maternal and child health as a shared national priority
Ensuring professional excellence, training, and safe working conditions for midwives
Collaborating with stakeholders to reduce maternal and infant mortality
Preserving the dignity and professionalism of midwifery