“The Hidden Crisis: Labour Law Violations in Ghana’s Private Sector”

The foundation of any thriving economy lies in the protection and empowerment of its workforce. My beloved country, Ghana, the Labour Act, 2003, Act 651, was enacted to safeguard workers' rights, dignity, and welfare across all sectors. However, recent developments and testimonies from employees in the private sector reveal a worrying trend of persistent violations of labour laws by some employers, particularly foreign-owned businesses operating within our borders. These acts of exploitation, underpayment, unsafe working environments, and lack of social protections continue to go unchecked due to limited enforcement and oversight.

Against this backdrop, I wish to draw the urgent attention of the newly appointed Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, Hon. Rashid Pelpuo, to these injustices. The time has come to restore dignity to Ghanaian workers and demand accountability from all employers, local and foreign.

I therefore write this article with deep concern and as a voice for many voiceless workers across the country, particularly in the private sector. There is a growing and disturbing trend of blatant disregard for the Labour Act, 2003, Act 651, especially among foreign-owned businesses, including those operated by Indian, Lebanese, Egyptian, and some other expatriate employers in Ghana.

Despite the protections enshrined in our national labour laws, many employees in these establishments are subjected to harsh and inhumane working conditions. Workers are frequently overworked with no proper compensation for overtime, paid far below the minimum wage, denied social security and pension benefits, and provided little to no healthcare or occupational safety. In some cases, employees are even verbally abused, arbitrarily dismissed, and forced to work in fear of retaliation should they raise concerns.

The most troubling aspect of this situation is the apparent lack of consistent supervision and enforcement by the very institutions mandated to protect Ghanaian workers. The absence of regular inspections and accountability mechanisms has emboldened some employers to act with impunity.

Honourable Minister, your recent appointment brings renewed hope for workers in Ghana. We trust that under your leadership, the Ministry will take a stronger stance on labour rights enforcement and that urgent reforms will be introduced to ensure that all employers, both local and foreign, adhere strictly to the provisions of our labour laws.

I respectfully urge your office to:

1. Initiate a comprehensive audit of foreign-owned businesses to assess compliance with the Labour Act;

2. Strengthen the Department of Labour with resources to undertake routine inspections and respond promptly to workers’ complaints;

3. Launch a public awareness campaign to educate employees on their rights and available channels for redress.

4. Collaborate with civil society and labour unions to protect vulnerable workers and ensure just and humane working environments.

The dignity of labour must not be compromised. Ghanaian workers deserve better. I trust in your wisdom and dedication to uphold justice and equity in the world of work.

Thank you

Your attention to this important matter will be much appreciated, I am confident that your leadership will bring the necessary change.

By Alvin Maxwell Some