The Ghana Trades Union Congress (TUC) has called on President John Dramani Mahama to honour his commitment to end illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey.”
According to the Union, the illegal mining menace was not only an environmental issue but also a matter of social justice and the right to a clean and healthy environment.
It insisted that the government must lead efforts to hold perpetrators accountable and reverse the damage caused to natural resources, since Ghana was a signatory to international environmental protection protocols.
“The TUC will continue to monitor government measures closely, having recently suspended planned strikes after the government pledged enhanced actions, including revoking controversial mining regulations and deploying security forces to flush out illegal miners from protected areas, among others.
Madam Cynthia Maame Aba Sam Amonoo, the Central Regional Secretary of TUC, said during Workers Day celebration in Cape Coast.
Thousands of passionate workers converged at the iconic Victoria Park near the Castle, transforming the historic space into a vibrant sea of solidarity and celebration for this year’s May Day festivities in the Central Region.
The atmosphere was electrified with spirited chants, colourful banners, rhythmic drumming and heartfelt camaraderie, as the workers community united to commemorate the Day with pride and purpose.
“Galamsey activities are “killing” the public and causing widespread environmental destruction that endangers livelihoods and natural resources.
“We demand urgent government action, including declaring a state of emergency on illegal mining, halting mining in forest reserves and prosecuting offenders to protect Ghana’s environment and future generations,” she said.
Against the backdrop of Cape Coast’s rich cultural heritage, the workers started gathering at dawn not just to honour their invaluable contributions to national progress, but to amplify their collective voice for better working conditions and social justice.
The workers stood still as a powerful testament to the enduring strength and resilience of Ghana’s workforce, echoing the global spirit of labour solidarity on this historic day.
Some conspicuous placards read: “No to Private sector participation in ECG: Yes to public power,” “public power for the people not private profits,” invest in public service not for private pockets,” our power, our right, not privatisation”.
Others are “kindly pay our allowances, Mr President,” “galamsey must stop now,” “equal pay for equal setting,” Mr President Work on Dumsor for sustainable productivity,” among others.
Speaking on the theme: “Resetting Pay and Working Conditions in Ghana: The Role of Stakeholders”, the Regional Secretary of TUC strongly opposed the proposed privatisation of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), aligning with the TUC’s consistent stance against such measures.
She argued that despite ECG’s operational challenges, including political interference, mismanagement and flawed procurement practices, the solution was in institutional reforms rather than privatisation, which risks jobs and higher tariffs for consumers.
“ECG remains a vital national asset,” she emphasized, urging the government to prioritize transparency and long-term strategic planning over short-term private sector involvement.
Madam Amonoo further lamented the widening disparities in salaries among government workers, highlighting systemic inequities in public sector remuneration.
She criticised the current wage determination model employed by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) as outdated and misaligned with economic realities.
“The existing framework fails to account for inflationary pressures and the rising cost of living,” she stated, advocating for its abolition and replacement with a dynamic, needs-based system.
To address income inequality, she proposed replacing the minimum wage with a living wage tied to actual living expenses, asserting that that would reduce poverty and enhance productivity.
Additionally, she called for a comprehensive review of emoluments and benefits for Article 71 office holders under the 1992 Constitution, labelling the current structure as excessively privileged compared to the stagnant wages of ordinary workers.
“It is unjust to maintain lavish compensations for political officeholders while public sector employees struggle to afford necessities,” she argued, stressing the need for equitable fiscal policies to restore public trust.
Mr Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere, the Regional Minister, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to workers’ welfare through collaborative efforts that prioritised mutual prosperity.
This year’s May Day celebration, according to him, served as both a tribute to workers’ contributions and a call to reset equitable compensation frameworks.
Mr Okyere highlighted the government’s multipronged approach to economic stability, including inflation reduction strategies and industrial policies aimed at value addition to raw materials and light manufacturing expansion.
He stressed the critical need for organized labour to embrace dialogue in wage negotiations, noting that constructive engagement would ensure policies to reflect workers’ needs while supporting national development goals.
The Minister cautioned against fiscal irresponsibility, urging workers and employers alike to prioritise efficiency and productivity to drive Ghana’s economic transformation.
He advocated retirement planning through skills-based ventures and public-private partnerships, including access to mortgage schemes that secure long-term housing stability.
He reiterated government’s commitment to labour reforms, ensuring pay structures and working conditions aligned with Ghana’s industrialisation agenda and global decent work standards.
“Just as were resetting regional governance through inclusive partnerships, we must reimagine worker-employer relations to build a resilient, equitable economy,” he noted.
For his part, Mr George Justice Arthur, the Cape Coast Metropolitan Chief Executive, commended workers for their significant contribution to the development and progress of the country.