Health department marks Nurses Day and calls for safer working environments

The Department of Health commemorates International Nurses Day by highlighting the crucial role nurses play in the healthcare system and advocating for a safer working environment for all health workers in line with this year’s theme.

In a statement released by departmental spokesperson Foster Mohale, he emphasised that nurses and other healthcare workers are the backbone of any health system and serve as the first point of contact for patients and are a vital link between individuals and the care they need.

“Nurses also play a critical role in counselling and educating patients and their families about health conditions, treatment plans, and self-care strategies,” Mohale noted.

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Despite their essential contributions, Mohale highlighted that nurses frequently face serious safety threats while on duty, both physical and verbal abuse from patients and community members.

“In recent months and years, the country has witnessed appalling incidents involving robberies and sexual assaults against nurses, particularly at primary healthcare facilities,” he said.

The department stressed the need for a well-supported and healthy nursing workforce to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare.

This is vital to achieving key health outcomes such as increased life expectancy and reduced maternal, infant, and child mortality rates.

“To this end, we appeal to all sectors of society – government, law enforcement, and community-based structures – to work together to make health facilities safer.

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“Nurses must be able to care for the sick and deliver essential services without fear of becoming victims of crime,” Mohale urged.

Mohale added that the 2025 International Nurses Day is observed under the theme: “Our nurses. Our future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies.”

The theme underscores the importance of investing in the health workforce to deliver high-quality care, strengthen healthcare systems, and enhance global economic resilience.

International Nurses Day is celebrated annually on May 12 and aims to honour the birth of Florence Nightingale, who is widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing.

Looking ahead, Mohale announced that the department will recruit an additional 200 nurses in the coming months.

This initiative forms part of the phased implementation of the Human Resources for Health Strategy 2030, aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage and reducing staff burnout.

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“A well-staffed, skilled, and supported health workforce is essential for delivering affordable, accessible, and quality healthcare services for all, as envisioned in the NHI Act,” he concluded.