By Deslyn A Joseph
In an event described by officials as a historic reconnection across the Atlantic, Antigua and Barbuda officially welcomed 112 nurses recruited from Ghana on Monday evening.
The delegation was first greeted upon their arrival at the V.C. Bird International Airport, where Minister of Health, Wellness & The Environment, Sir Molwyn Joseph, characterized the moment as one for the history books.
“We are brothers and sisters who have rejoined after being estranged for far too long,” Minister Joseph stated.
The spirit of unity was further cemented during a cultural exchange where Ghanaian officials, including Technical Director Samuel Appiahkubi, presented Minister Joseph with a traditional smock to symbolize their shared heritage. Appiah-Kubi noted the deep importance of this collaboration at the highest levels of government, stating that in an increasingly globalized world, it is essential for people of African descent to link themselves together. He expressed profound pride in seeing this contingent cross the Atlantic in peace and cooperation.
Following the airport arrival, the health workers were hosted at a reception at Casa Palmadita in Fitches Creek. The event provided an immediate introduction to local culture, featuring the sounds of steel pan music and traditional culinary. In attendance to welcome the workers alongside Minister Joseph were Minister of State Senator in the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Social Transformation, and the Environment Michael Joseph, and various other health officials.
While this initial greeting served as a warm introduction, a formal, official welcoming ceremony is currently being planned for this coming Saturday.
This arrival marked a significant expansion of the healthcare workforce, to reinforce the delivery of public health services across the twin-island nation.