President John Dramani Mahama has assured Organised Labour of the Government’s commitment to creating a supportive environment that will allow them to thrive and help Reset Ghana.
He said, his government recognised and deeply valued the pivotal role of the Ghanaian worker in driving the national development agenda.
“You are the engine of our economy, the builders of our infrastructure, and the innovators who propel us forward,” the President stated in a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency to mark this year’s International Workers’ Day (May Day).
He said this year’s May Day Celebration on the theme: “Striving for peace and stability to drive industrialisation, trade, and decent work for social justice,” reflected a critical truth, that was the need to implement policies to ensure sustainable development and the realisation of decent work and wages for all Ghanaians.
“Today is a special day for our gallant workers. On behalf of the people of Ghana, I celebrate your tireless efforts, dedication, and contributions to our progress as a country and people,” the President said.
President Mahama stated that over the last four months, the Government had been actively pursuing policies to stabilise the economy, promote industrialisation, focusing on adding value to the nation’s raw materials and creating new jobs in light industries, manufacturing and related sectors.
He said they were also working to strengthen the nation’s trade relationships, both regionally and internationally, to open new markets for the export of Ghanaian goods and services by implementing various economic initiatives, including the 24-Hour Economy.
In furtherance to his 120-Day Social Contract with Ghanaians, the Government remained dedicated to ensuring decent work for all citizens, he said.
President Mahama explained that this meant fair wages, safe working conditions, opportunities for training and skills development, and the protection of workers’ rights.
“Just yesterday, the National Youth Authority launched the National Apprenticeship Programme, closely following the introduction of the Adwumawura and One Million Coders programmes, which are part of our strategic interventions to create opportunities for decent jobs,” he said.
President Mahama said the Government was committed to strengthening the nation’s labour laws, enforcing occupational safety and health regulations, and promoting social dialogue between employers and employees.
Additionally, the Government recognised that inflation, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure were challenges, he said.
He indicated that the Government was determined to address these challenges head-on by investing in education and skills training to equip the Ghanaian workforce with the necessary tools to succeed in a modern economy.
Other stringent efforts being made to improve the nation’s infrastructure included roads and energy, to facilitate trade and economic growth.
President Mahama encouraged all employers and employees to commit to fostering a spirit of collaboration, understanding, and mutual respect to create a more prosperous and equitable Ghana, where every citizen could contribute their talents and skills to national development.
