Organised Labour in Ghana has called on the government to implement a comprehensive national incomes policy to tackle persistent wage disparities, inadequate salaries, and pension inequities in the public sector.
At a presidential dialogue in Accra, Joshua Ansah, Secretary-General of the Ghana Trades Union Congress (TUC), argued that the current piecemeal adjustments fail to provide fair and livable compensation for workers. He cited the national daily minimum wage of GH¢21.78—equivalent to about GH¢588 monthly—as insufficient for basic living needs.
Mr. Ansah also highlighted inequalities under the Single Spine Salary Structure, noting that while roughly 80% of workers receive allowances, the remaining 20% rely solely on base pay. On pensions, he pointed to extreme disparities, where some retirees earn as little as GH¢400 monthly while others receive over GH¢200,000, calling for a unified and equitable system.
Supporting the call, George Smith-Graham, CEO of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, acknowledged structural flaws in public sector remuneration. He stressed that inconsistent allowances and salary frameworks have weakened the Single Spine Salary Structure and fueled industrial disputes, which cost the economy GH¢1.47 billion in 2024 and GH¢635 million in 2025.
The dialogue forms part of ongoing government engagement with labour unions to reform employment conditions. Following the discussions, the Civil and Local Government Staff Association, Ghana (CLOGSAG) announced the suspension of its strike after receiving assurances that concerns over pay and conditions would be addressed.
Labor leaders insist that prompt adoption of a national incomes policy is critical to ensure fair compensation, prevent industrial unrest, and strengthen Ghana’s public sector workforce.
