Tema-Ghana, Oct. 25 – The Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL) has determined that in order to guarantee the long-term sustainability of agricultural labour and enhance working conditions, it is imperative to promote sustainable farming practises.
According to GFL, the government ought to support integrated pest control, encourage the adoption of organic and/or regenerative farming methods, and make investments in improved access to irrigation, soil fertility, and other inputs.
GFL President and Secretary General, Mr. Caleb Nartey and Mr. Abraham Koomson, respectively, signed a document addressed to the Minister of Finance headed “GFL inputs towards the preparation of the 2024 Budget Statement and Economic Policy”.
A supportive environment for agricultural labour should be a key component of the GFL’s planned investments in rural infrastructure and services.
This entails building more roads and transport infrastructure, as well as granting access to necessities like electricity, water, and sanitary facilities and cheap housing.
The Federation of Labour further stated that in order to establish a safe and secure workplace, it is imperative to enhance labour rights and safeguards and guarantee that agricultural employment is sufficiently safeguarded.
The Federation said, “This includes making sure that workers have access to rights for collective bargaining and that labour laws are properly enforced.”
n order to help farm workers invest in their businesses and boost productivity, the federation also asked for better access to credit and financing. This would be achieved by giving them access to small loans, subsidies, and other types of financial support.
In order to ensure that farm labourers have the requisite knowledge and experience and to develop their abilities, the GFL also advocated for increased funding for training and education.
The Federation further demanded a review of the 2008 Pensions Act, Act 766, since pensioners are entitled to lower lump sum benefits under Act 247 of the PNDC than they are under Act 766.
According to the GFL, 80 percent of pensioners saw their financial situation worsen just in 2020. If immediate action is not taken to buck the trend, the numbers are predicted to climb this year and in the years that follow.
Therefore, the GFL joins the Ghana Trade Union Congress in reminding the President to fulfil his pledge to make up the difference for individuals whose pensions were cut in 2020.
In compliance with Section 21(1) of the Public Financial Act 2016 (Act 921), and as part of the budget preparation process for the 2024 presentation, the Ministry of Finance invited labour unions and identified groups to provide feedback for the 2024 Budget and Economic Policy.
