Why a healthy nursing workforce is key to strong economies and health systems.
Each year on 12 May, International Nurses Day offers a moment to recognize the people who keep our health systems running, often quietly, always indispensably. The 2025 theme: Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies- goes beyond celebration. It challenges us to reimagine what it truly means to care for nurses, not just in words, but in policies, investments, and leadership opportunities. When we support nurses, we strengthen entire communities and economies.
To mark the day, we spoke with Angela Make, Program Director at the Southern Health Foundation and a 2025 WomenLift Health Southern Africa Leadership Journey cohort member. With over 25 years of experience in public health, Angela shares powerful insights on how to support, retain, and elevate the nursing workforce.
Q1: How does a well-supported nursing workforce impact both health and the economy?
When nurses are adequately resourced, emotionally supported, and staffed in safe ratios, patients heal better and faster. That means fewer complications and reduced hospital stays. Investing in nurses attracts talent, boosts innovation, and strengthens our public health systems. A healthier population leads to fewer sick days and more productivity. That’s real economic impact.
Q2: What are the most important steps we can take to support and retain nurses?
- Ensure safe nurse-to-patient ratios and flexible scheduling to prevent burnout.
- Pay nurses what they’re worth – along with benefits, wellness support, and incentives.
- Provide pathways to specialization and leadership training. Nurses deserve the chance to rise.
Q3: What happens if we fail to invest in nurses’ wellbeing?
We risk losing skilled nurses to other countries, our systems become overwhelmed, and care quality suffers. Burnout leads to resignations, which strain budgets and erode trust. When we neglect nurses, we weaken the entire health system. We must do better, for nurses and for communities”
Q4: How do politics influence nursing and healthcare systems?
Government priorities and public health funding have direct impacts on training, staffing, and services. Policy reforms shape whether vulnerable groups, like rural areas and low-income communities have access to care. Nurses need a seat at the table when these policies are being made.
Q5: What would a healthcare system designed by nurses look like?
It would be rooted in compassion and practicality. It would be strong and sustainable
- Focused on patient-centred, holistic care
- Expanded community-based services to reach more people
- Led by nurses in policy and decision-making
- Be affordable and inclusive, because healthcare is a right, not a privilege
- Built through collaboration with NGOs, businesses, and communities.”
Q6: How can communities and organizations support nurses?
Appreciate our nurses every single day! Celebrate their contributions! Share their stories! Small gestures of gratitude can lift spirits, but we also need real commitment, support, resources, and recognition that shows up in budgets and policies, not just words.
