Former President John Dramani Mahama has urged Organised Labour to play a more active role in managing Ghana's State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). He stated that workers suffer the most when these companies are mismanaged. Mahama made these remarks on Friday, May 1, 2026, during the May Day celebration in Koforidua. He called on the Trades Union Congress (TUC) to demand accountability from SOE management and their boards.
The former president stressed that when SOEs face problems and eventually collapse, it is the workers who endure the harshest consequences. Therefore, he urged labour unions not to remain silent when they observe mismanagement. Instead, they should speak up and ensure that necessary corrections are made to prevent such outcomes. He highlighted that Ghana's economic growth strategy must be supported by strong human capital and well-run public institutions.
Mahama pointed to recent government initiatives aimed at revitalizing struggling SOEs. He noted that some key enterprises are now showing signs of recovery after periods of significant financial difficulty. These efforts are part of a wider plan to rebuild confidence in public institutions. He expects these institutions to contribute more effectively to job creation and overall economic growth.
He specifically mentioned the Tema Oil Refinery, which has now resumed operations. The Agricultural Development Bank and the National Investment Bank have also received recapitalisation to improve their financial health and performance. The Tema Shipyard is also gradually stabilizing. These actions collectively aim to strengthen the public sector and ensure its positive impact on the Ghanaian economy.
The call for greater oversight by organised labour comes at a time when public enterprises play a significant role in Ghana's economy. SOEs are often involved in crucial sectors such as energy, finance, and agriculture. Their efficiency and financial stability directly impact government finances, employment numbers, and the cost of essential services for citizens. Inadequate management can lead to significant financial losses for the state, requiring taxpayer money for bailouts or restructuring efforts. The performance of these entities is a key indicator of the health of the public sector and its contribution to national development.
Mahama's message highlights a persistent challenge in Ghana's public sector. The effectiveness of SOEs has often been debated, with concerns raised about governance, efficiency, and financial prudence. Previous reports from institutions like the Auditor-General have often detailed instances of financial irregularities and mismanagement in various state enterprises. The involvement of labour in monitoring these issues could provide an early warning system and a stronger voice for employee welfare within these organisations. Their input can be crucial for identifying operational inefficiencies and advocating for sound business practices.
The implications of this call are significant for both government and labour. For the government, it suggests a potential partnership in ensuring the proper functioning of SOEs. For organised labour, it represents an opportunity to expand their influence beyond traditional wage negotiations to corporate governance. Workers' engagement in demanding accountability could lead to more sustainable operations and protect jobs. The response from the TUC and its member unions to this call will be closely watched. Their willingness and capacity to actively monitor and engage in SOE management will be critical in determining the success of this advocacy. This could lead to improved financial performance of SOEs, reduced burden on the national budget, and more secure employment for workers.