Government directs mining firms to protect workers’ wages under contract mining policy

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has instructed the Minerals Commission to protect the wages and benefits of mining workers during the shift from owner mining to contract mining, according to a press release issued on October 21, 2026. The directive was prompted by concerns raised by the Ghana Mineworkers’ Union, human resource experts, and other stakeholders about the potential negative impact of the transition on workers' welfare.

The Ministry emphasized that the contract mining policy will not result in workers being worse off, reiterating the government's commitment to ensuring that workers receive equivalent salaries, wages, allowances, benefits, and incentives as those of owner mining workers performing similar tasks before the transition. The Minerals Commission will be tasked with verifying that workers hired by mining contractors or service providers do not face any decline in their working conditions.

Additionally, the ministry has directed the commission to harmonize salaries, wages, and working conditions throughout the mining industry. These measures come after discussions with the Ghana Mineworkers’ Union leadership, industry experts, and other stakeholders to resolve concerns about the policy's implementation. The directive is part of the government's broader strategy to promote local participation in Ghana's mining sector.