Local content policy must protect mineworkers’ rights — GMWU

The Ghana Mineworkers' Union (GMWU) has urged the government to guarantee that its local content policy for the mining sector safeguards workers' rights, ensures fair employment, and prevents exploitation under contract mining arrangements. The union argues that local content initiatives should foster national development and secure sustainable employment opportunities for Ghanaians, rather than benefiting contractors at the workers' expense.

In response to the government's recent directives on contract mining, the GMWU warned that the policy could expose workers to exploitation, abuse, and casualization of labor, while undermining the rights and protections they have fought for over decades. The union emphasized the need for an inclusive and transparent approach to policy implementation, with workers' interests prioritized.

It stressed that local content should create decent, sustainable jobs and opportunities for all Ghanaians, rather than being a tool for enriching a few contractors. The GMWU clarified that it does not oppose the participation of Ghanaian businesses in the mining industry, but rejects any policy or practice that weakens social protection, undermines decent work, or violates workers' rights.

The union had previously petitioned the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources on August 20, 2026, expressing concerns about the Local Content Policy, particularly its implications for contract mining and mineworkers' conditions of service. Despite repeated reminders, no consultation had occurred between the Ministry and the GMWU by October 21, 2026, when the Ministry issued further directives.

The union rejected the Ministry's claim of extensive consultations and called for the record to be corrected. The union also criticized media engagements involving the Minerals Commission, the government, and other stakeholders, reminding them that many worker-related issues fall under the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651). The GMWU reaffirmed its dedication to collaborating with stakeholders to develop the mining industry while protecting the rights, dignity, and livelihoods of workers.