Unemployed Nurses Call for Reform in Recruitment Process

By Tangeni Aug 26, 2026

1000159187 — Photo for illustration purpose

A total of 1,350 unemployed graduate nurses have appealed to the Ministry of Health and Social Services to review its recruitment system, citing limited opportunities and financial strain.

Represented by the Kenneth Human Rights Association under Kennedy Illonga, the nurses said they are willing to serve in remote and underserved areas but face challenges due to the small number of posts advertised. “In many instances, only two or three positions may be advertised, while hundreds of qualified candidates are competing,” the group noted.

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They stressed that annual registration fees imposed by the Nursing Council create a heavy burden for unemployed professionals, while travelling long distances for interviews adds further costs.

Concerns were also raised about transparency and fairness in recruitment processes across regions.

The nurses proposed a return to the previous system, where those who passed the Nursing Council evaluation could be directly appointed to facilities with staffing shortages.

They also suggested a centralised recruitment panel in Windhoek to standardise interviews, verify qualifications, and ensure fair appointments.

According to the group, such reforms would reduce inconsistencies, curb nepotism, and ensure that qualified nurses are deployed where they are most needed.