Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has commended public sector workers for their contribution to Ghana’s economic recovery following an agreement between the government and organised labour to increase total remuneration by 9% in 2027.
The agreement, reached at a meeting of the Public Services Joint Standing Negotiating Committee on Wednesday, also provides for a 10% increase in base pay across the board in 2028.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Dr Forson said the agreement recognised workers’ contribution to sustaining public services and supporting the country’s economic progress.
“The agreement, as has been signed, recognises workers’ contribution to Ghana’s economic recovery. Workers’ dedication has helped sustain public service and support Ghana’s progress,” he said.
“I want to use this opportunity to commend organised labour and all negotiating parties,” he added.
He stressed that workers’ welfare would remain a priority as the government worked to consolidate the economic gains achieved in recent months.
“Their welfare must remain central as we consolidate the recovery we have achieved so far,” he added.
Under the agreement, effective January 1, 2027, total remuneration will increase by 9%, comprising an 8-percentage-point increase in base pay and a 1-percentage-point allocation towards conditions of service.
For 2028, workers will receive a 10% increase in base pay across the board.
The agreement also provides for the negotiating committee to reconvene and review the 2028 base pay if a specified trigger relating to December 2027 inflation is met.
The parties are also expected to review some allowances during the transition period to address distortions in the existing compensation arrangements.
Dr Forson said the negotiations were guided by the need to protect workers’ incomes, maintain fiscal sustainability and preserve industrial harmony.
“Workers deserve commitment that government can honour. Fiscal sustainability helps us meet our obligation to workers while providing essential public service and sustaining the economic recovery,” he said.
He added that the agreement would support a lawful and orderly transition to the proposed independent public remuneration commission.
The two-year agreement, covering January 1, 2027, to December 31, 2028, is subject to the applicable legislative process. Organised labour is expected to consult its members on reforms affecting workers.
