Kumasi: Thousands of workers from various unions and organisations gathered at the Kumasi Jubilee Park on Thursday, to mark this year’s May Day celebration on the theme: ‘Resetting Pay and Working Conditions in Ghana: The Role of Stakeholders.’ The event, attended by government officials, labour leaders, and civil society groups, highlighted the urgent need to improve workers’ remuneration and working environments across the country.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Augustine Adongo, the Ashanti Regional Secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), stressed the importance of collaboration between government, employers, and labour unions to achieve fair and sustainable working conditions. Mr. Adongo noted that Ghanaian workers continue to face challenges including stagnant salaries, inflationary pressures, and precarious working conditions.
He emphasised that stakeholders must ‘reset’ their approach by engaging in meaningful dialogue and adopting policies that prioritise workers’ welfare. ‘The role of all stakeholders, including government, employers, and workers cannot be overemphasised. Resetting pay and conditions of work is not a favour; it is a responsibility. Workers deserve dignity, respect, and fair compensation for their contributions to national development,’ he stated.
Mr. Adongo also called on the government to implement the recent labour reforms more aggressively and urged employers to respect collective bargaining agreements, ensure job security, and provide safe working environments. Mr. Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, the Kumasi Metropolitan Chief Executive, praised Ghanaian workers for their resilience and dedication despite the economic difficulties.
He acknowledged the frustrations many workers feel but assured them that government was committed to improving their livelihoods through policy reforms, job creation initiatives, and better labour market regulations. ‘Our workers are the backbone of our economic transformation. This May Day, as we celebrate your sacrifices, we renew our pledge to create an environment where hard work is rewarded, and workers’ rights are protected,’ he said.
He also encouraged workers to continuously upgrade their skills to remain competitive in an evolving job market, and called on private sector employers to partner with the government in championing better working standards. The parade saw vibrant displays by various labour unions, including the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the Health Services Workers’ Union, the Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU), and many others.
Workers marched through the streets of Kumasi in their colourful outfits, holding placards that carried messages calling for better salaries, safe workplaces, and respect for labour rights. Special awards were presented to distinguished workers and unions who have shown exceptional commitment to excellence and service over the past year.