Nkhoma pledges reforms as he bids for NONM presidency

As the National Organisation of Nurses and Midwives (NONM) prepares to go to the polls this November, veteran nurse George Nkhoma has confirmed he will stand for the position of President, pledging to restore integrity to the organisation.

Nkhoma presenting his nomination papers

Speaking in an interview after submitting his nomination papers, Nkhoma said nurses and midwives across Malawi have long carried the weight of the nation’s health on their shoulders while their voices remained fragmented, welfare demands delayed and professional dignity tested. He said this must change.

He pledged to restore full autonomy to district and zonal chapters, bringing decision-making closer to the wards where the work happens, arguing that collective lobbying and advocacy should start from the grassroots rather than being confined to the boardroom.

Nkhoma said welfare would become an annual national agenda under his leadership, with NONM launching a nationwide Nurses and Midwives Welfare Campaign every May, championed by chapters in all district councils.

The campaign would lobby government on key issues including salary adjustments reflecting 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 abroad and pledged his leadership would defend that right.

He said he would lobby government to formalise bilateral labour agreements with partner countries and establish a vibrant Diaspora NONM network to protect and support the welfare of Malawian health workers abroad.

To protect members from administrative injustices, Nkhoma also promised to establish a Members’ Legal Defence Fund, providing 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 with sister unions across the region. “A strong union must also care for its own,” he said.

Concluding his pitch to members, Nkhoma said: “I promise to restore your voice, protect your welfare, defend your rights, and build a NONM that delivers results — not excuses.” Together, he said, the profession would reclaim agency, unity and respect.