Speaking at the May Day celebration at Black Star Square in Accra, the Chairman of TUC Bernard Owusu, emphasised the urgent need for improvement in workers’ remuneration and welfare, pointing out that the wage situation has worsened since the president last held office.

“Our pay and working conditions are deteriorating. The wage situation in Ghana has worsened since you were last in government,” Mr Owusu lamented.

He explained that wages are now far lower compared to the rising cost of living, with inflation over the past four years leading to a significant decline in real wages. Wage inequality, he added, has increased across both the public and private sectors.

“The national pension system isn’t working for workers. We are confronted with low pensions and inequalities in pensions. The minimum monthly pension is GH¢396.58, while the highest is GH¢21,792.73. This is not the outcome workers envisaged under the three-tier workers’ scheme,” he complained.

Mr Owusu also raised concerns about workers’ rights, particularly the right to form or join trade unions. He pointed out that many workers who attempt to exercise this right are threatened with dismissal.

“Our brothers from Asogli are still at home. We ask that the president bring our brothers back to work,” he appealed.

The TUC chairman expressed concern over recent mass terminations in the public sector, recalling that similar actions under the previous administration led to painful consequences for many workers.

“As we gather under a government committed to resetting governance and restoring hope, it is only fitting that we chart a new course—one that refrains from repeating past mistakes,” he stated.

He called for amnesty for all public sector workers affected by recent terminations and emphasised that a genuine reset must focus on fairness, inclusion, and protection for workers.

“A genuine reset must be marked by passion, inclusion, and fairness,” Mr Owusu said.

Mr Owusu concluded by urging President Mahama to adopt a living wage, unify public sector pay and pension systems to reduce inequality, and establish an independent emoluments commission.

He also called for a complete overhaul of the Labour Act to ensure better protection for workers.

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As we join workers across the country and the world to celebrate May Day 2025, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) extends its warmest congratulations and profound gratitude to all Ghanaian workers for their invaluable contributions to national development.

This year’s celebration holds particular significance. It offers us not only an opportunity to honour the hard work, dedication, and resilience of workers but also a moment of collective reflection and renewal.

After 15 years of implementing the Single Spine Pay Policy (SSPP), it is time to pause, reflect on our journey, and reset the path forward for the future of compensation and working conditions in Ghana.

Since the introduction of the SSPP, workers across the public sector have stood shoulder to shoulder with the Commission in the shared vision of creating a fair, transparent, and equitable pay system.

Your support, collaboration, and constructive engagement have been crucial to the policy’s achievements and the strengthening of Ghana’s public sector. We deeply appreciate your commitment and perseverance throughout this journey.

Today, as we commemorate May Day 2025 under the broader theme of “Resetting Pay and Working Conditions in Ghana: The Role of Stakeholders,” we acknowledge that while the Single Spine Salary Structure achieved important milestones, the evolving needs of our economy, workforce, and governance structures require a bold and forward-looking approach.

Accordingly, Ghana stands at the threshold of a new and transformative chapter with the proposed establishment of an Independent Emoluments Commission.

This historic step will mark a complete reset of how public sector remuneration is determined, moving from fragmented negotiations to a comprehensive, evidence-based, and constitutionally grounded framework.

The Independent Emoluments Commission will be mandated to determine the salaries and conditions of service for every public sector worker, from the President of the Republic to the least-paid public servant.

It will promote fairness, transparency, competitiveness, and sustainability in public sector pay, while helping to eliminate distortions, disparities, and inequities that have persisted despite our best efforts under the SSPP.

As we reset, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the values of inclusiveness, dialogue, and mutual respect that have underpinned our journey thus far.

We will continue to count on your steadfast support, insights, and active participation as we transition into this new era.

Together, we can build a public sector compensation system that not only rewards productivity and performance but also fosters national cohesion and economic prosperity.

The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission salutes all Ghanaian workers, in every sector, every region, and every profession, for your unwavering commitment to excellence, service, and nation-building.

Your hard work is the engine that drives Ghana forward, and your aspirations must remain at the heart of all public policy reforms.

We also commend organised labour, civil society organisations, and all stakeholders for their partnership and advocacy in the pursuit of fairness, equity, and improved conditions of service.

We urge all stakeholders to continue to work with us in the spirit of unity and shared purpose to successfully establish the Independent Emoluments Commission.

On this momentous occasion, we say a resounding Ayekoo to all Ghanaian workers.

Your sacrifices have laid the foundation for a brighter future.

Together, let us rise to the challenge of resetting pay and conditions of service for a stronger, fairer Ghana.

Happy May Day!

Ayekoo

The event, which took place at the Forecourt of the Accra International Conference Centre, brought together over 2,500 workers from various institutions in the public service to experience Ghana’s rich culture through food, music, and dance.

The event which is part of the Ghana Cares program that seeks to resuscitate the tourism sector, was a taste sensation, with a display of Ghana’s diverse culinary landscapes featuring dishes from various regions of the country.

Food stalls offered a wide range of local delicacies, while musical performances and concerts by renowned Ghanaian artistes such as Samini, Great Ampong, Naa Amanua of Wulomei, and others.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Akwasi Agyemang reiterated the GTA’s commitment to showcasing all aspects of the Ghanaian culture.

“Food, music, and dance are the rhythm of our culture, and we’re committed to using them to showcase the best of Ghana.

“Our ‘See Ghana, Eat Ghana, Feel Ghana, and Wear Ghana’ campaign is dedicated to promoting domestic tourism and sharing our unique heritage with the world, hence an event like Feast Ghana. We’re excited to continue celebrating and sharing our culture with the world.” – He stated.

Some distinguished personalities from the public service, the diplomatic community, and traditional authorities, including the queenmothers graced the occasion.

The queen mothers and other dignitaries were resplendent in their colorful traditional regalia, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Ghana.

The ‘Feast Ghana’ event offered a unique opportunity for public service workers to experience Ghana’s culture and cuisine.

Most of the patrons were excited about the initiative and commended the Ghana Tourism Authority and its partners for organising such a memorable event, which will undoubtedly contribute to the promotion of domestic tourism and the preservation of Ghana’s cultural heritage.

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Addressing this year’s national May Day celebrations in Accra, the President assured Ghanaians that all issues related to dumsor have been effectively addressed, and they can trust his word on this matter.

He pointed out that maintenance work on transformers and other essential infrastructure has been completed.

The President expressed gratitude to Ghanaians for their patience during the period of dumsor.

He acknowledged the challenges faced by citizens during the period of erratic power supply and thanked them for their resilience.

President Akufo-Addo highlighted his government’s efforts to ensure continuous electricity supply and promised not to backtrack on this achievement.

He emphasised that his administration had worked tirelessly to keep the lights on for Ghanaians, and he intended to maintain this progress.

“As your president, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all Ghanaians for their patience and understanding of recent temporary challenges with the electricity supply experienced across the country. Over the period, the issues surrounding maintenance of transformers and gas supply have been successfully resolved resulting in the supply of electricity supply reliability.”

“Indeed over the past few days, we have witnessed a stable supply of electricity across the country with no load-shedding reported anywhere yesterday. For the past seven years, we have worked tirelessly to keep the lights and I am confident that the unfortunate era of dumsor will not return,” he said.

At the same event, the Secretary-General of the Trades Union Congress, Dr. Yaw Baah, emphasised the critical need for President Akufo-Addo to keep to his word.

Dr. Baah stressed the importance of taking action to address the persistent power challenges faced by the country.

In a statement on May 1, Mahama called for national unity ahead of the December 7, elections.

Under the theme “Elections 2024: The Role of Workers and Social Partners in Securing Peaceful Elections for National Development,” he emphasized the pivotal role of Ghanaians in ensuring a fair and peaceful electoral process.

Mr. Mahama also criticized the incumbent administration for poor governance, incompetence, economic mismanagement, and institutionalized corruption.

“Today’s celebration is tempered by our country’s severe challenges because of poor governance, incompetence, economic mismanagement, and institutionalized corruption under the current administration. Never in our history has a democratically elected government taken a wrecking ball to our economy with such ferocity,” the statement read. 

“The forthcoming elections on December 7 offer us a pivotal opportunity to alter our current trajectory and set a new course. During my first tenure as President, I steered the affairs of this nation through similarly challenging times. We overcame a significant energy crisis, implemented a universal salary structure, spearheaded transformative infrastructural developments, and built a more resilient economy,” it added.

The NDC flagbearer’s vision for Ghana’s recovery is the implementation of a 24-hour economy, aimed at generating sustainable job opportunities and promoting growth. 

He emphasized that, this initiative would not only diversify the economy but also empower the workforce by offering flexible work schedules and enhancing work-life balance, well-being, and productivity.

Mr. Mahama called on all Ghanaians to rally behind this transformative vision, pledging to prioritize the repair work needed to address the current economic challenges facing the nation.

2024 Workers Day Message from Mahama

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In a statement released by its General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the party extended its best wishes to workers on May 1.

The NDC promised to transform prevailing economic challenges into abundant opportunities, fostering enhanced living standards for every Ghanaian laborer. 

“We pledge to stabilize the economy: We will implement robust policies to control inflation and enhance job security, ensuring economic stability for every Ghanaian. Fair Taxation: We plan to overhaul the tax system to reduce your financial burden and direct government spending towards public benefits that enhance your quality of life,” the statement said.

The NDC also intends to drive the creation of quality employment opportunities through the implementation of its dynamic 24-hour economy policy.

“Create Quality Jobs: By advancing our dynamic 24-hour economy policy, we aim to provide meaningful employment opportunities that can uplift every household. Protect Workers: We are dedicated to enforcing fair labor practices and ensuring robust rights for all workers, defending you against exploitation and injustice. Pension Reform: We promise comprehensive improvements to the pension system to guarantee a secure and dignified retirement for every worker,” the statement affirmed.

The party further lamented the resurgence of power outages (Dumsor), attributing it to the  “ineptitude, mismanagement, incompetence, and poor leadership that have plagued our dear nation.”

“This has not only exacerbated our current predicament but starkly reveals the NPP’s blatant disregard for the welfare of the Ghanaian people,” the party added.

The NDC expressed confidence in ushering in a new era characterized by fairness, economic security, inclusive growth, and prosperity, in collaboration with workers.

“Stand with us, for with the NDC, a brighter future is not just a promise it is a commitment” the statement said.

Below is the full statement

A statement issued by the Interior Minister, Henry Quartey, urged the general public to observe the day throughout the country.

“The general public is hereby informed that Monday, 1st May 2024 which marks May Day (Workers Day) is a Statutory Public Holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country,” the release said.

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It is always a great pleasure to be in the company of Organised Labour on the occasion of the International Workers Day of Solidarity, May Day. Ghanaian workers, ayekoo.

The vice President, who has always been present at May Day celebrations since 2017, has asked me to convey his apologies to you for not being able to make it today. He is welcoming the Prime Minister of one of Ghana’s most important partners, Japan, who is arriving this morning in Accra for a two-day official visit. He is the second Japanese Prime Minister ever to visit our country. God willing, next year, the Vice President will be with us again on May Day.   

Secretary-General, ladies and gentlemen, it is good to be back in Bolgatanga, the city chosen for this seventh May Day celebration of my presidency, and I am happy the leadership of Organised Labour continues to rotate the hosting of this all-important event for workers between the regions. It mirrors the now-established practice of rotating the venue of our Independence Day celebrations. Long may these traditions continue.

Since the onset of COVID-19, whose effects have been exacerbated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, one of my major preoccupations continues to be the protection of lives and livelihoods. Indeed, this is a responsibility bestowed on me by the Constitution, and I want to reassure you that Government will do whatever it takes to protect your incomes and pensions in these challenging times.

When we met last year at the Black Star Square, in Accra, I assured you of Government’s commitment to protecting the jobs and incomes of workers. Not only did we demonstrate this over the course of the year, but we also proceeded to improve on the existing incomes of workers and pensioners alike.

Organised Labour appealed to Government for the payment of Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA) for public sector workers to cushion them against the difficult economic conditions. In response, Government and Organised Labour reached an agreement for the payment of fifteen percent (15%) COLA to public sector workers. As a sign of goodwill for workers in the private sector, the National Tripartite Committee agreed to the payment of fifteen percent (15%) Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA) for them, in addition to the ten percent (10%) upward adjustment of the 2023 National Daily Minimum Wage.

In spite of the difficult challenges Government and employers face, this was made possible through consensus building, to ensure businesses attain high levels of employment to hasten economic recovery. This is no mean feat, as it is the first time in the history of the determination of the National Daily Minimum Wage that the parties agreed to the payment of COLA, after wage adjustment for the year has already been agreed upon. This is an indication of our collective resolve to protect workers and their standards of living.

You would also recall that this year begun with Government and Organised Labour concluding negotiations on the 2023 Base Pay and Pay Point Relativity for Public Sector Workers in January 2023. Following a series of consultations and consensus building within the Public Services Joint Standing Negotiating Committee, the base pay on the Single Spine Salary Structure was increased by thirty percent (30%) over the 2022 figure, effective 1st January 2023. Indeed, the thirty percent (30%) increment of the 2023 base pay is the highest since the introduction of the Single Spine Salary Structure in 2010, and was made possible by the 2.5 percentage point increase in VAT. This increment will help mitigate the difficulties workers are facing, largely arising from the effects of global inflation. I urge Organised Labour to continue to work with the rest of the Tripartite Body to conclude negotiations of public sector salaries and the minimum wage for the 2024 financial year as soon as possible.

On the issue of pensions, Government recognises the challenge posed by low pensions, resulting from the relatively low incomes workers receive during their working life. Because Government is resolved to improve pension payouts, effective 1st January this year, all pensioners on the SSNIT pension payroll, as of 31st December 2022, have had their monthly pensions increased by twenty-five percent (25%). This year’s increase is a significant improvement over the 2022 rate of ten percent (10%), and also the highest increase of annual pensions since 2005, during the time of the Government of another NPP-President, His Excellency John Agyekum Kufuor. All these measures, put together, demonstrate to workers that the Akufo-Addo Government is a listening one, a government which is committed to improving the lot of workers and their dependants.

In the wake of the current global economic crisis, it has become even more imperative to protect workers. Our collective responsibility in achieving this objective is important, and it is for this reason that I consider the theme for today’s celebration, “Protecting Incomes and Pensions in an Era of Economic Crisis: Our Responsibility” as most appropriate.

Secretary-General, Organised Labour, it is evident that this current global crisis is the worst crisis the world has experienced in the past fifty (50) years. In spite of the damaging effect of the crisis, we have managed to protect lives, livelihoods and jobs, and kept the lights on. The crisis is having a profound impact on national economies and societies. Incomes, pensions and investment funds are equally being affected as a result of the multiplier effects of the multi-faceted crisis. Government’s policy responses have been targeted at restoring macroeconomic stability, ensuring debt sustainability from the short-term mitigation options, to addressing the long-term structural challenges, and paving the way for sustainable and inclusive growth and development.

I acknowledge the fact that, over the past few months, the Ghanaian discourse has been dominated by the launch of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme. I wish to emphasize that participation in the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme, voluntary as it was, was critical for the protection of the economy, and the enhancement of our capacity to service our public debts effectively and create fiscal space for our growth and development. In the midst of the current economic crisis, we cannot risk defaulting in the payment of our public debts, which would attract severe consequences – hence the debt exchange programme.

Despite the back and forth which characterised discussions with stakeholders on the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme, Government is truly grateful for the overwhelming participation of bond holders. The support, cooperation, input and feedback Government received to finetune eventually the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme were unprecedented and reassuring.  

In undertaking the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme, we have been very mindful of its potential impact on pension funds of workers. We will not act in any way to short-change workers in protecting their pensions. It is for this reason that Government, through an MOU signed with Organised Labour on 22nd December 2022, decided to grant exemption to all pension funds in the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme. At the same time, in the MOU, both Government and Organised Labour agreed to work together “to explore mutually beneficial options within debt sustainability limits and to also promote macroeconomic stability and economic recovery in the spirit of social partnership”. In this regard, within global risk management practice, the options should include diversifying the portfolio of pension funds from the current seventy percent (70%) in government paper to real sector investments including rail, housing, urban transportation, motorways and airport as is done by other pension funds.  I am aware that both the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Employment and Labour Relations and their technical teams have been working with Organised Labour/Associations and Pension Fund Managers/Trustees to explore these mutually beneficial options. I would like to use this occasion to appeal to Organised Labour to  work urgently with Government to conclude the discussions within the spirit of social partnership and burden-sharing towards addressing our economic challenges, and providing a stronger base for our rapid growth and development.

We are also very much aware of the impact of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme on the domestic financial sector, and steps are being taken to mitigate the impact of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme on the sector. As has been announced by the Finance Minister, we are establishing the Ghana Financial Stability Fund (GFSF) to provide, amongst others, solvency and liquidity support to eligible financial sector institutions, which may be affected by the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme. In addition, the Bank of Ghana and the regulators in the financial sector space have provided some regulatory reliefs to support affected institutions. In keeping with our common objective, Government, through the Financial Stability Council, will monitor continuously the impact of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme on financial institutions to enable it take remedial action, if and when necessary. This would ensure that measures put in place to safeguard incomes, deposits, pensions, investor funds and assets are effective.

Mr. Secretary General, I agree with Organised Labour when it says “Protecting Incomes and Pensions in an Era of Economic Crisis is Our Responsibility”. This is evidenced by the fact that, over the course of the year, Government has kept every single public sector worker on the payroll. There have been no job losses. Every public sector worker continues to keep his or her job. Even at the peak of the dual global health and economic crisis of the last three (3) years, Government ensured that no public sector worker was taken off the payroll as a result of the crisis. Government’s posture, today, is the same, even in the difficult times we find ourselves. We have demonstrated this through our commitment to increases in the national daily minimum wage, base pay, and pension payments, amongst others, in spite of their fiscal impact on the economy. Indeed, these increments have been made possible because Government is very empathetic towards the people, as it should be, and is very much concerned about their plight and the future of our country. In so saying, I am aware the Ministries for Finance and Employment and Labour Relations are working on the payment to the retirees of 2020. SSNIT has competed the computation, and has forwarded it to the Minister for Finance, who has assured me that it will be effected this year.    

It is important to emphasise that protecting incomes and pensions, in an era of economic crisis, is tied to increased productivity, enhanced revenue mobilisation, effective expenditure management, and, in particular, the effective and sustainable management of the public sector wage bill.

Today, the expenditure on compensation of employees, which comprises wages and salaries, allowances, pensions, gratuities and social security contributions, represents 56.01% of tax revenue, which is higher than the ECOWAS threshold of 35%, creating a serious fiscal crowd-out effect. This calls for immediate steps to increase productivity in the public service, as well as aggressively increase revenue collection by the Ghana Revenue Authority.

Given that growth in public expenditure far outstrips that of revenue, it behoves on Government to bring expenditures, including the public sector wage bill, to sustainable levels. Managing the public sector wage bill in a sustainable manner would inure to the protection of incomes and pensions, as it helps contain inflation. Mr. Secretary-General, we brought inflation to single digits, and sustained it for some time until the global crisis pushed inflation to its current highs. We have brought inflation to single digits before, and we will do it again.

Secretary-General, the quest to diversify the economy for greater macroeconomic outcomes has become more paramount than ever. The current crisis provides an impetus for diversifying trade and production, and exploring alternative income earning opportunities. As you know,  we are committed to the policy of domestic food security and export-driven value addition. It is in our interest to patronise domestic goods and services to hasten economic recovery, create jobs for our peoples, and boost their incomes. Many a time, we overlook the national penchant for foreign goods and services, but are quick to blame Government when it begins to have a toll on our foreign reserves.  Government will continue to do what is within its control. However, consumer preference for goods and services must be deliberately championed by us all.

We must patronise the services of our own, support them to grow, support them to employ our fellow Ghanaians so that, together, we can contribute meaningfully to building the Ghana we all want. I urge everybody here to support the Region by patronising made-in-Ghana products, including food and drinks before departing to your respective destinations. This is one of the ways in which we can protect the incomes of people working and living here in Bolgatanga.

Secretary-General, ladies and gentlemen, dialogue, consultations, engagement in frank and open discussions remain very important routes through reaching consensus and proffering solutions for issues of national development. To this end, I would like to entreat the Tripartite, namely, Government, Organised Labour, and Employers Association to re-activate the Social Partnership Council that was inaugurated in April 2019, but whose mandate came to an end in December 2022. The Social Partnership Council offers a mechanism for building a sense of cohesion, trust, self-management and engagement in frank discussions with mutual sacrifices from all stakeholders to champion Ghana’s development. I am informed Government has already circulated a request for nomination for the reconstitution of the Social Partnership Council to the Tripartite. I call on the Tripartite to provide nominations for the immediate reconstitution of the Social Partnership Council. This is consistent with the Kwahu Declaration, from the National Labour Conference of March 2022, which called for the Social Partnership Council to be strengthened as a platform for building consensus on development policies and programmes.

Secretary-General, ladies and gentlemen, let me touch on a very important subject matter which is the status of the IMF programme negotiations. After achieving a Staff Level Agreement with the IMF in December, 2022 in record time, six months after beginning the negotiations in July 2022, we have continued to work tirelessly to complete all prior actions required to present Ghana’s Programme to the IMF Executive Board for approval. We have also made substantial progress on the debt exchange programme, as well as on our engagements with bilateral creditors to secure financing assurances required for the IMF Programme. We are assured that the next round of meetings of the Paris Club will result in the formation of Official Creditor Committee, inclusive of China, and the provision of financing assurances. The IMF and the World Bank have been very supportive in this journey. With the progress made so far, we expect the IMF Board to consider Ghana’s programme for imminent approval, after the financing assurances are provided. I thank Organised Labour for the role they have played in this journey, especially their inputs into the preparation of the government’s Post COVID-19 Programme for Economic Growth, which underpins the IMF-supported Programme.

We are very confident that the approval of the IMF Programme will contribute significantly to revival of confidence required to drive the successful implementation of the Post COVID-19 Programme for Economic Growth and the key structural reforms for economic recovery and sustained inclusive growth.

Already the progress we have made in securing the IMF Staff Level Agreement, in the debt exchange programme, and the implementation of key structural reforms, are yielding benefits. Inflation is decelerating, interest rates on government treasury notes are declining, the depreciation of the cedi is slowing down, and GDP growth for 2022 has performed beyond expectations. With the successful implementation of the Post COVID-19 Programme for Economic Growth, we expect growth to recover in the medium-term to over five percent (5%). The medium-term growth will be supported by key interventions to support improvements in the business environment and export competitiveness, promotion of entrepreneurship for private sector development, fast-tracking the implementation of key growth-oriented programmes under the Ghana CARES (Obaatan Pa) Programme, transitioning to a digital economy to boost productivity, tax collection, and the formalisation of the economy, and the strengthening of policies to adapt to and mitigate climate change for inclusive growth.  

As I have said, on several occasions, Ghana will emerge stronger from this difficult period. I assure you that, by dint of hard work, prudence and creativity, we will turn things around. We will work to help return our economy to the days of high growth rates, and make our country, again, the best place to do business and the most attractive destination for investment in West Africa, like we were in March 2020, prior to the onset of COVID-19. We are confident of a rapid economic recovery, and my government will not relent in this regard. It is a solemn pledge I am making to you, my fellow Ghanaians, and one which I am determined to fulfill.

Before I conclude, there is a matter of great importance which I must address, and it has to do with the stability of our nation. In times of difficulties, there would be those who would seek to exploit the situation in order to jeopardise the hard-won reputation of our country as a beacon of democracy and stability in Africa, and, indeed, in the world, in order to gratify their personal ambitions. Their ambitions show little or no respect for the capacity of the Ghanaian people to change their government peacefully through the ballot box, something they have done on three (3) separate occasions in the thirty (30) year life of the 4th Republic. The great majority of us, who are committed to democratic values and democratic institutions, must continue to resist the claims of these adventurers, and employ all legitimate means in a democracy to maintain our free, open system of governance, which is respectful of human rights, the rule of law and the principles of democratic accountability.

My Government and I’s respect for fundamental human rights, which are guaranteed by the Constitution of the Republic, includes respect for the right of association, which entitles every citizen to join any lawful association of his or her choice. That includes the right to join trades unions, and, so long as I am President, we will continue to uphold that right. And I will do my part to ensure the completion of the review of the Labour Law. I need the active co-operation of Organised Labour to ensure that the right is respected.

In response to the appeal by the Secretary-General to intensify efforts at bringing peace to Bawku, I want to assure him and, indeed, the nation at large, that there is no higher priority for Government on the agenda of national security than the resolution of the Bawku conflict. Not only are we enhancing, as we speak, the security deployment in the area to promote more strongly the rule of law, and hold accountable all who violate law and order in the area, we are also intensifying the efforts to find a solution to the customary tensions that underline the Bawku conflict, so that, hopefully, a final resolution of that conflict can be attained, just as it has been attained in Dagbon. Nothing will give me greater pleasure, in the concluding days of my presidency, than to help bring lasting peace to Bawku. May God grant me the wisdom to achieve that outcome.

In conclusion, I celebrate you, our gallant workers, once again, for your hard work, selflessness, sacrifice, patriotism and commitment to the development of our beloved nation. Your contributions will be duly recognised and rewarded, and I urge you to remain steadfast and focused in your pursuit of excellence.

On this august occasion, I appeal to all Ghanaians, including Organised Labour, to continue to build on the good rapport and excellent relations that exist among us. The peace we enjoy today should never be taken for granted, and we should cherish every single moment that allows us to advance our development, progress and prosperity, in conditions of peace and stability. I assure you of Government’s utmost support and co-operation.

I thank you for your attention, and congratulations to all awardees.

Long Live Trade Union Solidarity!

Long Live Organised Labour!!

May God bless Organised Labour, and us all, and may God bless our homeland Ghana, and make her great and strong.

I thank you all for your attention.

Addressing workers during this year’s May Day celebration in Bolgatanga, the President said his government is assiduously engaging the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to secure board approval for Ghana’s $3 billion bailout request to bring relief to Ghanaians.

“We continue to work tirelessly to complete all prior actions required to present Ghana’s request to the IMF’s integrity board for approval. We have also made substantial progress on the debt exchange programme as well as our engagements with bilateral creditors to secure the financing required for the IMF programme,” President Akufo-Addo said.

The government is seeking $3 billion in support from the IMF to address the country’s economic challenges.

President Akufo-Addo also assured that his government will thrive to find lasting peace to the protracted Bawku ethnic conflict before the end of his tenure.

According to him, finding lasting peace in the Bawku conflict remains his highest priority as president.

Meanwhile, the Trades Union Congress has suggested to the government to convert the National Cathedral project into a national hospital.

Addressing the 2023 May Day parade in Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region, the Secretary-General of the TUC, Dr Anthony Yaw Baah, said converting the project into a hospital will serve Ghanaians better than a cathedral.

“The president has always said he wants to create another Notre Dame in Ghana, so we can attract a lot of visitors, but we disagree. In fact, comrades, it will be better to convert the project into a national hospital,” Dr Baah said, adding “Mr President you can also reduce the size of your government. Ghana has too many ministers and deputy ministers.”

In a statement signed and released in Accra on Sunday, April 30, 2023, in commemoration of this year’s International Labor Day celebrations, Dr Akoto said, “I salute all workers of Ghana for their immense contribution to our nation-building. I believe in the potential of our workers to advance the development of our dear nation”.

International Labor Day, also known as May Day, is celebrated every year across the world on May 1. 

It is mainly celebrated in recognition of the struggles and gains made by workers and the labour movement. 

It is also celebrated to raise awareness about the rights and opportunities every labour should get for their welfare and betterment.

Monday, May 1, 2023, which marks May Day has been declared a Statutory Public Holiday in Ghana by the Minister for the Interior, Ambrose Dery.

The day will be marked at Bolgatanga, the capital of the Upper East Region where the President of the Republic of Ghana is expected to address thousands of Ghanaian workers.

To Dr Akoto, who is also the immediate past Minister of Food and Agriculture, Ghanaian workers deserve commendation considering their enormous contributions to the economic growth and stability of Ghana.

“I congratulate you for your hard work and wish you well in the years ahead of us. Ayekoo,” he noted in his statement.

Chanting “Cyril must go,” they held up signs demanding a wage increase during a ceremony in a stadium near the north-western city of Rustenburg.

The protesters, who worked at a local mine, have been striking for weeks.

President Ramaphosa tried to address the miners’ concerns but was greeted by booing.

The workers want an annual salary pay rise of 1,000 rand ($63; £50) – a demand which President Ramaphosa addressed directly.

“We have heard that message and we will be dealing with that matter,” he is quoted as telling the miners by the IOL news site.

He also pledged to speak to the relevant authorities to meet their demands, IOL reports.

In a two-minute video of the disruption, the president can be seen making repeated attempts to calm the workers down, only to be greeted with further jeering and booing.

[ON AIR] President Cyril Ramaphosa trying to calm the angry Sibanye-Stillwater workers. #DStv403 pic.twitter.com/2LN6JOulGK

— eNCA (@eNCA) May 1, 2022

At Sunday’s event, which had been organised by South Africa’s trade union federation Cosatu, police had to step in while a bodyguard led the president away from the venue, according to IOL.

The workers were from Sibanye-Stillwater, which is a metal mining company and the world’s largest primary producer of platinum, according to its own website.

South Africa’s economy has been hit hard by the Covid crisis, and unemployment is now around 35%.

Mining is one of South Africa’s most important sectors – accounting for 8-10% of national income and employing almost 450,000 people – but it has been in decline in recent years.

According to the NDC, ‘workers are the engines of societies’, and therefore the need for government to promptly resolve the difficulties they encounter.

In a statement signed by the NDC’s National Chairman, Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, the NDC applauded the contributions of workers in the country and urged them to continue their service to the nation.

The party reiterated its commitment to bettering the lot of Ghanaians if they win the upcoming 2024 general elections.

“As we join all workers to mark this auspicious day, we want to assure them that upon the ascension of power by the NDC in January, 2025, the pains and sorrow of the workers of Ghana will receive our utmost focus and attention.

We know that when workers are happy and satisfied, this country’s level of productivity will increase by leaps and bounds, and all our citizens will be the beneficiaries.

As we celebrate our workers for their commitment and dedication to duty, we also hail them for their unflinching love for Ghana. Ghana workers, AYEKOO”, the statement emphasized.

Below is the full statement

The body has justified the demand, insisting they will continue to strike until government fully commits to paying the money.

CLOGSAG says its members will not join the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in the celebration of this year’s Workers’ Day on May 1, 2022.

Addressing the media, Executive Secretary of CLOGSAG, Isaac Bampoe Addo described TUC as a poisonous union.

He maintained that CLOGSAG has the bargaining power to seek conditions of service for its members.

Mr Bampoe Addo who accused TUC of acting in bad faith said they will organise their own activities across the country to mark the May Day celebration.

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Members of CLOGSAG laid down their tools on Thursday, April 21, 2022, following the inability of the government to pay the allowance as agreed upon in January this year.

The neutrality allowance is to ensure that civil and local government workers do not engage in partisanship while conducting their affairs when they are in their various offices.

The union insists the strike is on and will only be called off when the government is firm on its promise to pay them.

Listen to the audio below for more:

Paying tribute for their contribution to healthcare delivery, especially at a time the world is battling the coronavirus pandemic; Jerry Justice wore a surgeon’s apparel to host his show on Friday.

Without leaving any stone unturned, he hanged his stethoscope around his neck and had his gloves and nose mask on including the theatre overall.

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“On this workers day, I would like to salute Ghana’s number one worker, His Excellency President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo, for his hard work and what he has done for Ghanaian workers after three years in office,” he wrote on his Facebook wall.

To buttress his point, Dr Bawumia outlined about 37 policy interventions President Akufo-Addo has implemented in the past three years to alleviate the suffering of the Ghanaian worker.

Below is the full list of interventions Dr Bawumia listed:

1. Creation of over 350,000 jobs created in the public sector alone and much more in the private sector.
2. Reduction in the cost of electricity – compared with the 45% annual average increase between 2013-2016.
3. In the midst of COVID-19, free electricity for lifeline consumers and 50% reduction for all others for the months of April, May and June 2020.
4. In the midst of COVID-19, free water to all Ghanaians for the months of April, May and June.
5. Abolished the payment of utility bills by students
6. Restoration of macroeconomic stability
   • Inflation down
   • Growth up
   • Interest rates down
   • Exchange rate depreciation down
7. Domestic Production and supply of personal protective equipment for our health workers
8. Reducing Import Duties- by 50%
9. Reduction and abolition of 15 taxes
10. Planting for food and Jobs- subsidized fertilizer, seeds and extension services to farmers
11. Restoring the cancelled Teacher Training Allowances
12. Restoring the cancelled Nursing Training Allowances
13. Restoring cancelled allowances to Arabic Instructors
14. Increasing the peace keeping allowances of the military and police from $31 to $35 per day.
15. Paying arrears of teachers who were paid only 3 months salary for over 2 years of work
16. Doubling the capitation grant
17. Absorbing the cost of WASSCE registration
18. Major increase in scholarship awards to students by the scholarship Secretariat
19. Increased efficiency of government service delivery through the Digitization of government services such as Passport Application, DVLA, Registrar General, NHIS Renewal, ECG power purchases, etc.
20. Protecting the deposits of millions of over 14 million Ghanaians by saving the banking system from collapse
21. Saving the National Health Insurance Scheme from collapse through a drastic reduction in the outstanding arrears to service providers
22. Massive Payment of arrears to road contractors
23. Over 600 vehicles and three helicopters other equipment for the police service
24. One district one factory – on course
25. Revival of Anglogold Ashanti
26. Revival of Ghana Publishing Company
27. Revival of Ghana Post
28. Revival of our Railways
29. National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Program (NEIP)
30. One Village One Dam – on course
31. One constituency one ambulance
32. Emergency medical deliveries through drones (the largest such program in the world)
33. Nation Builders Corps – 100,000 graduates employed
34. Absorbing the fees for post graduate medical training –
35. Restoring research allowances in tertiary institutions –
36. Employing persons with disabilities to man 50% of all our toll booths –
37. Implementation of Free Senior High School Education
    Ayeekooo Mr President (We thank God for you) and Ayeekooo to all Ghanaian workers!