The Government of Ghana has taken a significant step toward strengthening labour relations and policy dialogue with the inauguration of a Tripartite Planning Committee to oversee preparations for the 2026 National Labour Conference.
The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr. Abdul Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, officially inaugurated the Committee on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Accra. The event brought together key stakeholders from government, organised labour, and the Ghana Employers’ Association, reflecting a unified commitment to addressing pressing labour and economic issues.
The newly constituted Committee has been mandated to commence work immediately to ensure the successful organisation of the National Labour Conference, which is scheduled to take place at the end of April 2026. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to enhance engagement among social partners and promote industrial harmony across the country.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Pelpuo emphasised the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in tackling emerging challenges within the labour sector. He noted that the establishment of the Committee is grounded in Section 113 (1) (c) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), which mandates the National Tripartite Committee to consult widely on matters of social and economic importance.
According to the Minister, the upcoming conference will serve as a critical platform for deepening social dialogue, building consensus, and strengthening cooperation among stakeholders within Ghana’s labour ecosystem. He further explained that the conference represents a strategic expansion of existing engagement mechanisms, describing it as a “fourth-tier” approach to inclusive dialogue aimed at ensuring sustainable labour relations.
The decision to organise the National Labour Conference was taken by the leadership of the National Tripartite Committee during its meeting held on October 27, 2025, as part of measures to address evolving dynamics in the world of work and to reinforce stability within the labour front.
The nine-member Planning Committee is chaired by Dr. George Smith-Graham, Chief Executive Officer of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission. Its membership comprises representatives from the Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment, the Ministry of Finance, organised labour, and employers’ groups. Mr. Theodore Mawuli Amezah serves as Secretary to the Committee.
The Committee has been tasked with developing a comprehensive framework for the conference, including the preparation of a detailed budget, selection of venue, and determination of the structure, format, and thematic focus of the event. It is also expected to identify key dignitaries, speakers, and participants who will contribute to the success of the conference.
Proposed thematic areas for discussion at the conference include Ghana’s current economic outlook, national and sub-regional security, flexible working arrangements in line with the government’s 24-hour economy policy, sustainable remuneration for public sector workers, strengthening labour administration institutions, and safeguarding the sustainability of the three-tier pension scheme.
Expressing confidence in the capacity of the Committee, Dr. Pelpuo urged members to approach their assignment with diligence and dedication to ensure the delivery of a successful and impactful conference.
Responding on behalf of the Committee, Chairman Dr. Smith-Graham expressed appreciation to the Ministry for the trust placed in the team. He assured the Minister of the Committee’s commitment to working assiduously to organise a conference that will produce meaningful outcomes and contribute significantly to advancing Ghana’s labour agenda.
Source: Public Affairs Unit, Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment
