The plight of informal sector workers took center stage at a Regional Stakeholder Conference on Labour Rights and Social Protection, organized by Songtaba in collaboration with Oxfam in Ghana.
The event aimed to address critical issues such as workplace protections, fair wages, and social security for workers in the informal economy.
The informal sector constitutes a significant portion of Ghana’s workforce, yet many employees operate without fundamental protections, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and economic insecurity.
Recognizing this gap, Songtaba, in partnership with Oxfam in Ghana, spearheaded a stakeholder engagement focusing on workplace sexual harassment charters and equitable gender model workplace policies. This initiative falls under the broader Gender Transformative Actions and Social Inclusion Project, which seeks to promote fair and inclusive working environments across the country.
Speaking at the conference, Adam Lamnatu, Executive Director of Songtaba, emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to ensure informal sector workers receive the protections they deserve. “Labour rights and social protection should not be a privilege but a right for all workers, regardless of where they are employed. This engagement is a step towards fostering a more equitable work environment,” she stated.
The conference provided a platform for informal sector employees to engage directly with policymakers, organized labour groups, and key stakeholders. Discussions revolved around workplace policies, labour rights, and strategies to enhance working conditions. Participants underscored the importance of legislative frameworks that protect informal workers from discrimination, exploitation, and harassment.
Stakeholders at the event called for stronger enforcement of existing labour laws and the introduction of new policies that reflect the realities of informal employment. They also advocated for increased access to social security benefits for informal sector workers, many of whom are left without safety nets in times of crisis.
As Ghana continues to push for economic growth and social development, initiatives like this conference serve as a vital reminder of the need to integrate informal sector workers into the national labour framework. The discussions and resolutions from the event are expected to inform future policies and advocacy efforts aimed at securing better working conditions for all.
