Accra: The Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment has unveiled the first batch of 47 newly trained Labour Compliance Officers and Inspectors to ensure businesses comply with labour laws and regulations.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Labour Compliance Officers and Inspectors Task Force will enforce labour laws, provide technical advice and guidance, and address any defects or abuses not specifically covered by existing laws. All 16 regions of the country will benefit from comprehensive coverage by these officers.
Speaking at the event in Accra, Mr. Hamidu Adakurugu, the Chief Director of the Ministry, emphasized that this marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s effort to strengthen compliance and workplace safety throughout Ghana. He noted that this initiative is a cornerstone of the government’s commitment to rebuilding Ghana into a nation where every institution functions properly, every law is enforced, and every worker is protected.
Mr. Adakurugu credited the transformation to Dr. Abudl-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, the Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, whose leadership and strategic vision were instrumental. The Special Taskforce on Workplace Inspections and Compliance was constituted to operationalize the mandates of the Factories, Offices and Shops Act (FOSA), Act 328, and the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651) more effectively.
He explained that these legal frameworks are not merely documents but are pillars that ensure decent work, safe environments, and the protection of workers’ rights while sustaining investment confidence in the economy. “As we reset our nation, we are resetting workplace safety standards and labour compliance across Ghana,” Mr. Adakurugu stated. He clarified that compliance is a partnership between the government, employers, workers, and investors, and not a form of punishment.
He further emphasized that while the partnership requires commitment from all parties, enforcement will prevail where partnership fails, stating that the safety of workers is non-negotiable. He highlighted that the Ministry has recruited and thoroughly trained inspectors selected for their technical competence, integrity, and commitment to service.
These inspectors are tasked with ensuring full compliance with FOSA and Labour Act standards, educating workplaces, protecting vulnerable workers, conducting systematic inspections, and documenting violations for swift corrective action. Mr. Adakurugu declared that every workplace in Ghana falls under their jurisdiction, ensuring that workers receive dignity, safety, and respect.
He encouraged the newly trained Inspectors to be guided by fairness and professionalism, assuring them of the authority to shut down dangerous operations and hold employers accountable. Mr. Adakurugu urged them to resist bribes, biases, and bureaucracy, stating, “You are not just inspectors-you are custodians of national progress and worker dignity.”
Mr. Lionel Anim Boateng, Project Manager of the Special Taskforce on Workplace Inspections and Compliance, reminded Task Force members that workplace safety and security now rests in their hands.