The Ghanaian government has implemented a significant salary adjustment for public sector workers, increasing their base pay by 23%. This decision comes after successful negotiations on the 2024 base pay, with the adjustment retroactively applied from January 1 of the same year.
Confirming the development, Controller and Accountant General, Kwasi Kwaning-Bosompem, emphasized the government's commitment to the welfare of public sector employees. He highlighted that not only has the government approved the 23% adjustment, but it has also consistently ensured timely payment of salaries.
Mr Kwaning-Bosompem underscored the government's unwavering support for workers, even during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. While other jurisdictions saw salary cuts and layoffs, Ghana remained steadfast in paying salaries, reflecting its dedication to its workforce.
With signs of economic recovery emerging, the Controller and Accountant General urged public sector workers to contribute to stabilizing the economy. He emphasized the need for collaboration to ensure fiscal stability and macroeconomic equilibrium.
Members of Organized Labour, including the Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU), have corroborated the government's implementation of the 23% base pay increase. TEWU's General Secretary, Mark Dankyira Korankye, affirmed that their members have received their salaries reflecting the new adjustment without any reported issues.
This salary adjustment follows last year's increase of the base pay by 30% across the board, marking the largest increment negotiated by Organized Labour since 2010. This increment also marked the end of the cost of living allowance (COLA) previously paid to public sector workers between July and December of the preceding year.
Before the current administration assumed office in 2017, the highest base pay increment had been 12%, highlighting the significant strides made in improving workers' remuneration over the past years.
The implementation of the 23% salary adjustment underscores the government's commitment to enhancing the welfare of public sector workers and ensuring their continued support in driving national development initiatives.