Hon. Dr. Abdul Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, the Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, has reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening its collaboration with the private sector to promote decent work, occupational safety, and sustainable job creation across Ghana. This statement was made during his recent working visit to the Accra Compost and Recycling Plant of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, where he engaged with the company’s management on matters concerning labour standards, expansion opportunities, and workforce development.
In his address, Hon. Dr. Pelpuo explained that his visit was not only to familiarise himself with the company’s operations but also to further deepen the cooperation between the government and the private sector. He stressed the importance of ensuring that workers operate in safe, dignified, and environmentally compliant conditions, highlighting that the government is keen to address labour issues, improve working conditions, and create a favorable environment for both employers and employees. “Our key concern is how labour is respected, the conditions under which people work, and how those conditions are favorable to both the employer and the employee,” he remarked.
The Minister also highlighted the recent introduction of the 24-Hour Economy Authority Act, a legal framework designed to enhance industrial productivity. This law includes provisions that offer incentives for companies capable of operating extended hours within legal boundaries to boost output and create more employment opportunities. Dr. Pelpuo underscored that the government is dedicated to understanding the challenges faced by industry players and exploring practical solutions to support business expansion, increase workforce participation, and improve productivity.
Dr. Pelpuo commended Zoomlion Ghana Limited for its remarkable transformation of the sanitation sector, which was once viewed as unattractive, into a viable and competitive industry offering numerous investment and employment opportunities. He praised the company for its innovation and drive, acknowledging that the sanitation sector has now become one of the most promising areas of economic development. He assured Zoomlion’s management of the government’s readiness to foster closer collaboration to create a more conducive environment for private sector growth, particularly to encourage greater youth participation in the workforce.
Mrs. Florence Larbi, Chief Operating Officer of Environment and Sanitation at the Jospong Group of Companies, used the visit as an opportunity to share the company’s growth journey and social impact initiatives. She outlined the company’s extensive Corporate Social Responsibility efforts, including sponsoring Ghanaian students pursuing postgraduate studies in Russia. Mrs. Larbi also emphasized Jospong’s contribution to job creation in Ghana, noting that over the years, the company has helped generate employment for more than 200,000 people across various sectors, including sanitation, afforestation, logistics, and equipment provision. She also highlighted the company’s inclusive employment policy, which integrates persons with disabilities into its workforce.
The visit concluded with a guided tour of the compost and recycling plant, accompanied by an interactive session that emphasized the Ministry’s renewed efforts to work closely with key industry players in advancing decent work standards and promoting sustainable job creation in Ghana.
Dr. Pelpuo was joined by several senior officials from the Ministry, including the Chief Director, Mr. Hamidu Adakurugu; the Director of Labour and Employment, Mr. Nhyira Adu Amankwah Sarfo; the Head of the Public Affairs Unit, Mr. Eyram Tottimeh; Legal Advisor Mr. Daniel Kupualor, and other Ministry officials.
