Tarkwa: The Ghana Mineworkers' Union (GMWU) of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has urged the government to ensure fair contracts between local entities and multinational mining companies operating in Ghana. The Union has raised concerns, asserting that the current contractual arrangements are exploitative and pose significant risks to the sector's stability if not addressed promptly.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Jerry Andoh, Deputy General Secretary of GMWU, speaking on behalf of Mr. Abdul-Moomin Gbana, General Secretary, highlighted these issues at the Union's first-half National Executive Council meeting in Tarkwa. He argued that the implementation of local content, although commendable in theory, has largely disadvantaged local businesses. The Union pointed out the severe consequences of such contracts, including neglect of workers' welfare, delays in salary payments, non-payment of Provident Fund contributions, and other violations.
Mr. Andoh emphasized the urgent need for government intervention in mining and hauling activities designated for local entities due to their capital-intensive nature and the high cost of credit in Ghana. He cautioned multinational companies and the Chamber of Mines to address these concerns, warning that failure to act could undermine industrial stability in the near future.
The Union also expressed concern over the significant shift in the mining labor market, where over 90 percent of the workforce is now engaged in non-standard forms of employment. This shift, according to Mr. Andoh, has eroded job security, reduced workplace protections, and increased the risk of injuries and rights violations. He insisted that mining companies must be held accountable for ensuring decent working conditions and covering employees' costs.
Mr. Andoh called on the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to implement policies protecting local entities and workers, ensuring fairer participation in the mining value chain.
