The Head of Operations at Olive Health Diagnostics and Imaging Center and lecturer at Central University’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dr. Benson Owusu, has called on nurses to step beyond the walls of hospitals and clinics and enter the political arena to help shape health policies.
He made the passionate appeal while delivering the keynote address at the Nurses Christian Fellowship International (NCFI) World Congress.
Speaking to an audience of international nursing professionals, Dr. Owusu emphasized that while nurses remain at the heart of patient care, their voices are too often absent in the corridors of power where critical decisions about healthcare systems are made.
“I want to challenge you: consider a position in politics—whether as a Member of Parliament, a Minister, or even the President of your country. You have what it takes.”
Quoting scripture, Dr. Owusu added, “The Bible says that when the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice. This doesn’t mean our leaders are wicked, but we need leaders who truly understand what is at stake in healthcare.”
He criticized what he described as a widespread issue in African health systems—strong policy formulation but weak implementation.
“We have diarrhea for health policy-making, but constipation when it comes to implementation,” he said pointedly.
Beyond political involvement, Dr. Owusu urged nurses to maximize their impact by using digital tools and social media. Drawing from his own experience as a self-proclaimed “health evangelist,” he shared how platforms like Facebook and Instagram have enabled him to educate the public on conditions like preeclampsia, malaria, and hypertension. His online presence has led to speaking engagements on national television, radio, and in churches.
“Don’t just go to social media to post glorious moments,” he urged. “Use it as a tool to educate and inspire.”
He also highlighted the changing landscape of healthcare post-COVID-19, where virtual surgeries and online lectures are becoming commonplace. According to Dr. Owusu, these shifts demand that nurses rethink their role in society—not just as caregivers, but as educators, advocates, and leaders.
“Nurses and midwives must now pull up a chair at the decision-making table—even if they weren’t invited,” he stated. “The world is changing. Healthcare is changing. It’s time for nurses to lead that change.”
Dr. Owusu’s keynote resonated with attendees, many of whom face similar challenges in their home countries. His call to action, blending faith, passion, and policy insight, offered a compelling vision of what nursing leadership could look like in a new global era.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu
Thank you so much Dr., really appreciate your advice. We will work on it very soon. God bless you.