Africa-Press – Ghana. Dr Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, says government remains committed to implementing policies to boost labour and multi-factor productivity.
He noted that productivity was the backbone of any successful economy, driving growth, job creation, and improved living standards.
Dr Pelpuo made the remarks at the 12th Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU-Ghana) in Accra.
The event was held under the theme: “Enhancing Productivity at the Workplace: The Role of Social Partners.”
Dr Pelpuo emphasised that enhancing and sustaining workplace productivity was achievable through joint efforts by all tripartite partners.
“Workers, employers, and government must work together to create an enabling environment that fosters innovation, creativity, and efficiency,” he said.
According to the Minister, the theme was timely as the country sought to build a viable and sustainable economy.
Citing the 2024 National Report on Productivity, Employment and Growth by the Ghana Statistical Service, Dr Pelpuo said Ghana had recorded moderate labour productivity growth since 1991-exceeding the average for lower-middle-income countries, but still trailing that of upper-middle-income economies.
He noted that productivity gains had accelerated particularly between 2010 and 2016, coinciding with the start of oil extraction. However, the growth had not translated into sustained multi-factor productivity or structural transformation.
“These gains have largely been confined to the mining industry.
“Other sectors with potential to drive productivity, decent employment, and technological modernisation are not growing at the required pace,” he stated.
Dr Pelpuo said the Ghanaian labour market continued to be dominated by informality, unemployment, and underemployment.
He called for stronger collaboration among social partners to address the challenges of technological change, climate change, and economic uncertainty affecting the labour sector.
“By collaborating and sharing knowledge, we can build a more resilient and sustainable economy that benefits all Ghanaians,” he added.
The Minister commended ICU-Ghana for its unwavering dedication to promoting workers’ welfare and its significant contribution to national development.
He underscored the importance of fair wages and benefits, saying they were key drivers of employee motivation and engagement.
He also stressed the need for investment in employee training and development, which, he said, would not only enhance performance but also build confidence, improve morale, and promote work-life balance.
Dr Pelpuo urged stakeholders to actively engage in social dialogue, prioritise open communication, mutual respect, and trust.
That, he stressed, could unlock the full potential of Ghana’s workforce and drive productivity, innovation, and growth.
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