In a groundbreaking celebration of unity, vision, and worker empowerment, the Extractive Industry Workers’ Union Ghana (EIWUG) of the Ghana Federation of Labour inaugurated its national office on Saturday, May 3, 2025, in the Bono Regional capital of Sunyani.
The milestone event, which drew a cross-section of industry leaders, union executives, government officials, and corporate partners, marks a bold step in decentralising organised labour leadership away from Ghana’s traditional power centres.
A Sacred Beginning: Dedication of the National Office
The day’s activities began with a solemn dedication ceremony at the SSNIT Building in Sunyani, led by Very Rev Solomon Bruce of the Wesley Cathedral – Sunyani. In a stirring address, the Very Reverend urged union members to uphold unity as the cornerstone of growth and success. “It is only through unity that this union will flourish and yield greater testimonies,” he affirmed, as he committed the newly established office and its staff into divine hands.
Rev Bruce also delivered a poignant charge to the union’s leadership, calling for selfless service driven by the collective interests of the members, not personal gain.
A Historic Milestone
Victor Asare Gyapong, Executive Director of EIWUG of GFL, emphasised the significance of the location, noting, “It appears this is the first time a Workers’ Union has officially opened its national head office outside Greater Accra and Ashanti Region.” This decision, he explained, reflects the union’s deep-rooted commitment to decentralisation, inclusivity, and regional empowerment.
Main Inauguration Ceremony: Eusbett Hotel, Sunyani
Following the dedication, the grand inauguration was held at the Eusbett Hotel’s conference hall. Ing Ebbin Abaka-Yankson, National Chairman, opened the gathering with an introduction of dignitaries, before delivering a powerful welcome address. “Workers and employers are partners, not adversaries,” he declared, reminding attendees of the union’s mission to foster cooperation and shared progress. “We are here to celebrate how far we’ve come,” he added, urging all members to defend and uphold the union’s growth.
Endorsements from Industry Leaders and Partners
Justice Asare Frimpong Fenteng, Acting General Manager of Newmont Africa – Ahafo North Project, praised the union for its resilience and foresight. Commending the decision to site the national office in Sunyani, he acknowledged the visible growth in membership and encouraged the union to invest in knowledge development to influence industry policies effectively. “I hope this union stays and grows big,” he stated, also emphasising the need for alliances with traditional and youth leaders and a strong focus on gender equity. “I don’t see any females in the leadership of the union,” he stated.
Representing the Labour Department, Acting Chief Labour Officer Isaac Maalma-Kaminta recognised the union’s remarkable journey from a modest industrial body to a nationally acknowledged force. He lauded the event’s theme: “Partnering for Progress: Shaping the Future of Industrial Relations,” as a forward-looking rallying call. “Strong unions are not a threat,” he affirmed, “but a strength. A well-organised and responsible workforce enhances productivity and corporate reputation.”
Corporate Commitments to Collaboration
Representing Newmont Africa/Canada, Robert Borden expressed management’s appreciation for the day’s significance. “Today isn’t just a formality,” he stated. “Management commits to work hand-in-hand with the union for mutual benefit.”
Twum Bannor, Industrial Relations Manager at Zijin Akyem Mine, echoed this sentiment, pledging Zijin’s readiness to embrace the union and work together toward the welfare of all workers for mutual benefit.
Recognising Champions of Change: Citations and Donations
As part of the inauguration, EIWUG of GFL presented honorary citations and a significant welfare donation to celebrate the contributions of key members and reinforce the union’s appreciation for commitment and service. Among the honourees was Nana Osei Sarfo Tieku II, Kontihene of Akyem Muoso and first PSU Chairman in Akyem, recognised for his visionary leadership and foundational role in establishing EIWUG of GFL. A veteran of Newmont Golden Ridge Limited, Nana Tieku is admired for bridging tradition and modern labour advocacy through integrity, unity, and community-focused service.
Also honoured was Frederick Addai Opoku, Esq., EIWUG’s of GFL first Chairperson, celebrated for his instrumental role in developing the union’s constitution, governance, and strategic framework. With nearly two decades in the extractive sector, Opoku is widely respected for promoting ethical leadership and inclusive dialogue. His role as a trustee of Newmont’s pension scheme reflects his steadfast commitment to workers’ welfare.
In further demonstration of its commitment to community development, EIWUG of GFL issued a cheque of GH₵10,000.00 through Ecobank (A & C Mall branch) to Ahafo Mine Workers Touching Lives, supporting initiatives aimed at worker and community welfare.
Vision, Advocacy, and the Road Ahead
In his keynote address, Victor Asare Gyapong, the Executive Director of the union, spoke with conviction about the union’s mission. Under the Ghana Federation of Labour, EIWUG of GFL has secured landmark legal victories, launched impactful welfare initiatives, and introduced the “Fa Bi Sie” Savings Scheme with CalAsset as the fund manager to promote financial discipline and long-term security for members.
The union has also been vocal on national issues, including a bold call to fix the deteriorating Sunyani–Kenyasi road, which significantly affects the health and productivity of workers.
Leadership Presentation
Ing Abaka-Yankson concluded the event by introducing EIWUG’s of GFL leadership across various levels, from national executives to branch leaders, urging members to engage with them for continued progress.
EIWUG of GFL Leadership Snapshot:
Directors: Victor Asare Gyapong, Ing. Ebbin Abaka-Yankson, Samuel Ofori Danquah (Nana), Frederick Addae Opoku, Esq., Samuel Osei Sarfo (Nana Sarfo Tieku)
National Executive Committee: Includes Victor Asare Gyapong, Ing Ebbin Abaka-Yankson, Ing. David Adu Siaw, Michael Ampadu, Samuel Ofori Danquah, and Bernard Asuh
Professional and Branch Executives: Covering Ahafo South, Ahafo North, and Akyem Zijin mines, with key roles held by Ing. Ebbin Abaka-Yankson, Ing David Adu Siaw, Emmanuel Baah Appiah, Emmanuel Kwarteng, Frederick Danso Missah, Moses Addai, Wellington Opoku, and Appiedu Okyere.
Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins
As the curtains drew on this landmark inauguration, one thing was clear; EIWUG of GFL is not just building a union; it is shaping the future of industrial relations in Ghana. With a leadership committed to fairness, advocacy, and innovation, and with the blessings of both spiritual and strategic partners, the union stands poised to redefine worker-employer dynamics in the extractive sector.
In the words of Victor Asare Gyapong: “We are not bystanders to change. We are the drivers of it.”
