Ghana Raises Public Sector Pay by 9% as Government Targets Economic Relief and Labour Harmony

The Ghanaian government has approved a 9 percent increase in public sector salaries under the Single Spine Salary Structure (SSSS) for the 2026 financial year, as part of a broader plan to sustain economic recovery and improve workers’ living conditions.

The National Tripartite Committee also confirmed a 9 percent upward adjustment in the national daily minimum wage, from GH₵19.97 to GH₵21.77, effective January 1 to December 31, 2026.

The new wage agreement, signed on November 9, 2025, followed negotiations between the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), the Ministry of Finance (MoF), and Organised Labour, signaling renewed cooperation between the government and worker unions.

Finance Minister Dr. Ato Forson said the increment reflects government’s commitment to reward productivity while maintaining fiscal discipline.

“After enduring high inflation and interest rates, Ghana is now on a path of stability. The government is determined to push inflation further down, to below 8 percent, so the average worker can feel genuine relief,” Dr. Forson said.

The Ministry of Finance and FWSC are expected to oversee the implementation of the new rates and ensure timely payment across all affected sectors.

Employment and Labour Relations Minister Dr. Rashid Pelpuo hailed the outcome as “proof that dialogue works,” adding that the agreement strengthens industrial peace at a critical time in the country’s economic recovery.

FWSC Chief Executive Dr. George Smith-Graham also praised labour unions for their patience and cooperation, stressing that the deal is a shared victory for both government and workers.

Meanwhile, TUC Secretary-General Joshua Ansah cautioned the government against introducing new taxes or tariff hikes that could erode the value of the increment.

“The 9 percent increase means little if it’s consumed by higher taxes or rising utility costs,” Mr. Ansah said. “We call on government to keep its word and protect the welfare of workers.”

The salary and wage adjustments are expected to inject new confidence in Ghana’s workforce while reinforcing the government’s commitment to fair compensation and economic stability