By Linda Kwanjana
As the National Organisation of Nurses and Midwives (NONM) prepares to go to the polls this November, a renowned nurse has come out and disclosed that he will stand for the position of President.
Speaking in an interview after submitting his nomination papers this afternoon, George Nkhoma pledged to restore the integrity of the organisation.
In hospitals and health centres across Malawi, nurses and midwives carry the weight of the nation’s health on their shoulders. Yet for too long their voices have been fragmented, welfare demands delayed, and professional dignity tested. Nkhoma says that must change.
He has promised to restore full autonomy to district and zonal chapters so that decision-making is brought closer to the wards where the work happens.
According to Nkhoma, collective lobbying and advocacy must start from the grassroots and not be confined to the boardroom.
Welfare will also be made an annual national agenda under his leadership. Nkhoma said NONM will launch a nationwide Nurses and Midwives Welfare Campaign every May, championed by chapters in all district councils.
The campaign will lobby government on key issues including salary adjustments that reflect the cost of living, provision of uniforms, review of locum and risk allowances, and provision of hot meals for staff on duty.
On migration, Nkhoma acknowledged that nurses and midwives have a right to move and pledged that his leadership will defend that right.
He said he will lobby government to formalize bilateral labour agreements with partner countries and will establish a vibrant Diaspora NONM network to ensure the welfare of Malawian health workers abroad is protected and supported.
To protect members from administrative injustices, Nkhoma also promised to establish a Members’ Legal Defence Fund that will provide timely legal representation to nurses and midwives facing disciplinary or inquiry proceedings arising from system or administrative failures.
For long-term sustainability, he outlined plans to construct a NONM Clinic and Care Centre, establish a NONM Savings and Credit facility, and deepen partnerships and collaboration with sister unions across the region. “A strong union must also care for its own,” he said.
In conclusion, George Nkhoma’s promise to every nurse and midwife in Malawi and in the diaspora: I promise to restore your voice, protect your welfare, defend your rights, and build a NONM that delivers results — not excuses.
Together, he says, the profession will reclaim agency, unity, and respect.
