Our Terms & Conditions | Our Privacy Policy
Mahama Pledges Economic Stability and Worker Protections on May Day
President John Dramani Mahama
President John Mahama marked International Workers’ Day with a commitment to advancing industrialization, fair wages, and job creation, framing Ghanaian workers as central to national development.
In a statement aligned with this year’s theme, “Striving for peace and stability to drive industrialization, trade, and decent work for social justice,” Mahama described laborers as the “engine of our economy” and outlined policy initiatives aimed at revitalizing growth.
“My government recognizes the pivotal role of the Ghanaian worker in driving our national agenda,” Mahama said, highlighting programs such as the 24-hour economy, One Million Coders initiative, and the National Apprenticeship Programme designed to expand youth employment. He reaffirmed pledges to enforce labor laws, improve workplace safety, and ensure social dialogue between employers and employees as part of a 120-day social contract with citizens.
The president acknowledged ongoing challenges, including inflation and infrastructure gaps, but emphasized progress in stabilizing the economy during his administration’s first four months. Efforts to strengthen regional trade partnerships and boost manufacturing were cited as steps toward opening new markets for local goods.
Mahama’s address comes amid mixed reactions to his economic policies. While some unions have welcomed job creation pledges, others, including the Minority Caucus, accuse the government of undermining worker rights through mass dismissals and opaque wage negotiations. The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has separately urged inclusion in regional security councils to preempt labor disputes, signaling broader demands for institutional accountability.
Ghana’s labor landscape remains a critical battleground for economic equity, with past initiatives like the Sinohydro infrastructure projects often criticized for delays and mismanagement. Analysts note that Mahama’s focus on industrialization mirrors regional trends, where governments balance globalization pressures with grassroots demands for inclusive growth. However, the success of programs like Adwumawura, aimed at formalizing informal sector jobs, will depend on sustained funding and transparent implementation.
As Ghana navigates global economic headwinds, the administration’s ability to translate rhetoric into tangible improvements in worker welfare may define its legacy. With youth unemployment hovering near 12% and inflation at 23%, the call for unity between employers and employees underscores both the urgency and complexity of achieving shared prosperity in a nation where labor remains a cornerstone of political discourse.
Send your news stories to newsghana101@gmail.com
Follow News Ghana on Google News
Images are for reference only.Images and contents gathered automatic from google or 3rd party sources.All rights on the images and contents are with their legal original owners.
Comments are closed.