By Stanley Senya, GNA
Accra, Oct. 23, GNA – CanCAF has launched a global leadership development initiative to equip nurses and midwives with the skills to influence healthcare policy, improve patient outcomes and strengthen health systems.
The Leadership Development Series for Nurses and Midwives (LIT) organised under the theme “Lead, Influence, Transform,” seeks to build leadership capacity among nursing and midwifery professionals in Ghana, Africa and beyond.
The initiative draws inspiration from the achievements and leadership vision of Mrs Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, winner of the 2025 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award.
It is designed to help nurses and midwives develop leadership skills, influence decision-making, and contribute to sustainable improvements in healthcare delivery.
Professor James Avoka Asamani, World Health Organisation (WHO) Health Workforce Lead for the African Region, served as the keynote speaker and officially launched the programme.
His participation highlighted the importance of investing in nursing and midwifery leadership to build resilient health systems and improve patient care across Africa and beyond.
The programme featured three leadership sessions focusing on leading one’s position, influencing healthcare outcomes and building the future of nursing and patient care.
Dr Barnabas Yeboah, Director of Nursing and Midwifery Services at the Ministry of Health, facilitated the first session, titled “Lead from Where You Stand.”
The session encouraged participants to recognise that leadership was not determined solely by one’s position but also by the ability to take initiative, demonstrate purpose, and make a positive impact in the workplace.
The second session, “Move People, Move Care,” was led by Dr Jose Arnold Tariga, Founder of Bridge and Beyond Advisory LLC.
It examined how purposeful influence could strengthen healthcare teams, improve patient care, and support lasting improvements in healthcare delivery.
The final session, “Build the Future Ward,” was facilitated by Dr Stacy Bentil, Chief Executive Officer of Bentil Health Consulting.
It focused on innovation, collaboration, and translating leadership skills into practical actions to improve nursing practice and patient care.
The programme was moderated by Dr Theresa Barnes and brought together nursing and midwifery professionals, healthcare leaders, educators, policymakers and participants from different countries.
Representatives of the Ministry of Health, Ghana Health Service, Nursing and Midwifery Council, Ghana College of Nurses and Midwives, and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital also supported the initiative, alongside strategic partners and other stakeholders.
CanCAF said the launch marked the beginning of a long-term leadership development journey aimed at building a global community of nurses and midwives capable of contributing to policy development, strengthening healthcare institutions and shaping the future of the profession.
The initiative seeks to move beyond professional training to encourage practical leadership, collaboration, and the adoption of innovative approaches to healthcare delivery.
It is expected to provide a platform for nurses and midwives to develop the capacity to lead change within their institutions and contribute to broader health system reforms.
GNA
Edited by Linda Asante Agyei