"Gov\u2019t Approves 9% Salary Increment for Public Sector Workers, Raises Minimum Wage for 2026"

Government has approved a 9 percent salary increment for all public sector workers under the Single Spine Salary Structure (SSSS) for the 2026 fiscal year, as part of efforts to sustain economic recovery and enhance the living standards of Ghanaians.

The National Tripartite Committee has also agreed to 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 agreement, signed on November 9, 2025, followed negotiations between the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), the Ministry of Finance (MoF), and Organised Labour. It marks another step in government’s efforts to balance fiscal discipline with the need to protect workers’ incomes amid a gradually stabilising economy.

Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, commended Organised Labour for their cooperation, describing the wage adjustment as a reflection of government’s commitment to recovery and social equity. “The country has gone through difficult times with high inflation and interest rates, but today both indicators have declined. Government is working to further reduce inflation from the current 8 percent to ease the burden on Ghanaians,” he stated.

He further assured that the Ministry of Finance and the FWSC would ensure full implementation of the new pay structure, adding that government remains focused on maintaining macroeconomic stability while improving conditions of service for workers.

Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, Dr. Rashid Pelpuo, lauded both parties for the constructive dialogue that led to the agreement, describing the outcome as a testament to Ghana’s maturing industrial relations framework. “This outcome reflects government’s dedication to labour harmony and economic resilience,” Dr. Pelpuo noted, urging continuous collaboration between government and Organised Labour to sustain industrial peace.

Chief Executive Officer of the FWSC, Dr. George Smith-Graham, also commended Organised Labour for their responsible engagement throughout the negotiations, noting that their cooperation has been crucial in maintaining wage stability and investor confidence.

On behalf of Organised Labour, Secretary-General of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Joshua Ansah, acknowledged the sacrifices made by workers in accepting the 9 percent increase, describing it as a modest but progressive adjustment.

He, however, urged government to refrain from introducing new taxes or tariff increases that could offset the real value of the pay rise. “Workers have endured significant economic pressure in recent years. It is important that this increase brings real relief, not more hardship through indirect costs,” Mr. Ansah emphasised.

The 2026 salary and wage adjustments are expected to benefit thousands of public sector employees, while signalling a renewed commitment by government to fair compensation, fiscal prudence, and sustainable wage growth.