Sekondi-Takoradi: Mr Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring workers’ confidence and hope through job security and improved working conditions. He emphasized that the welfare of Ghanaian workers would be central to the government’s programmes and policies aimed at enhancing their wellbeing.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Nelson outlined plans to implement a living wage policy, expand social protection schemes to include informal sector workers, and strengthen institutions like the National Labour Commission to resolve disputes more swiftly and fairly. He also stressed the importance of deepening tripartite engagement and promoting workplace inclusivity to ensure that women, youth, and marginalized groups are not left behind.
Mr Nelson made these remarks during a gathering of workers’ unions in the Western Region at the Ghana Secondary Technical School (GSTS) Park to celebrate this year’s May Day. The event was themed ‘Resetting Pay and Working Conditions in Ghana: The Role of Stakeholders.’ He noted the rapidly changing world of work, characterized by rising living costs, global economic uncertainties, and technological advancements, necessitating a re-evaluation of how the workforce is valued, rewarded, and protected.
He urged employers to view workers as partners whose wellbeing is crucial for productivity and loyalty. He also called on Organized Labour to continue advocating, negotiating, and engaging with stakeholders to co-create solutions. “Together, through meaningful partnerships, we can build a future where decent work is not a privilege for the few, but the reality for many,” he added.
Mr Nelson encouraged stakeholders to use the May Day celebrations as a catalyst for renewed commitment from every employer, worker, and policymaker to push for a future where dignity, fairness, and opportunity are the pillars of Ghana’s labour landscape.
Madam Shirley Breiman, Chairperson of the Western Region Trade Union Congress (TUC), reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to the labour movement for a brighter future. She highlighted challenges facing workers, particularly the Region’s poor roads, and urged the government to expedite actions to address these specific issues.
