Organised Labour secures 9% public sector pay increase for 2027

The Government of Ghana and Organised Labour have concluded negotiations on a two-year Multi-Year Public Service Remuneration Agreement, establishing salary increments for 2027 and 2028. Under the terms of the agreement, public sector workers will receive a 9% increase in total remuneration effective January 1, 2027. This 2027 package is structured as an 8% increase in base pay alongside a 1% allocation dedicated to improving conditions of service and addressing inequalities in public sector allowances.

The second phase of the agreement guarantees a 10% increase in base pay for the 2028 fiscal year, also taking effect on January 1. This subsequent raise will be calculated based on the total wage bill as of December 31, 2027. Joshua Ansah, the Secretary-General of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), announced the details following a series of meetings held by the Public Services Joint Standing Negotiating Committee. The multi-year framework is designed to provide a stable remuneration environment as the country transitions toward a new independent commission tasked with overseeing public sector emoluments.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson described the agreement as a historic milestone in Ghana’s public service negotiations, emphasizing its role in maintaining industrial harmony and supporting national economic recovery. Dr. Forson commended public sector workers for their contributions to the economy, noting that the deal seeks a careful balance between improving worker welfare and maintaining strict fiscal discipline. The Minister highlighted that the agreement includes specific review mechanisms tied to inflation, ensuring that the purchasing power of workers is protected if economic conditions fluctuate beyond projected levels.

While union representatives acknowledged that the negotiated increments may not fully offset the financial pressures currently faced by all workers, they characterized the deal as significant progress toward preserving purchasing power. Secretary-General Joshua Ansah noted that the 1% dedicated to service conditions is specifically intended to aid lower-paid and vulnerable workers by narrowing existing pay gaps. The agreement now moves toward the formal legislative process for implementation, with Organised Labour expected to continue consultations with its members regarding broader reforms to the pay administration system.