By: Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi /Emmanuel Ayiku for Ghanaian News Canada
Tema, Dec. 31, GNA – The management of the Tema Port has dismissed claims of strike action and prolonged labor unrest at the port, assuring port users, investors and the business community that operations remain stable, efficient and uninterrupted.
In a press statement issued by management of the Ghana Ports and Habours Authority (GPHA), it described recent media statements by the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) on a supposed chaotic situation at the port as inaccurate and not reflective of the current operational realities at Ghana’s premier port facility.
The statement was in response to concerns raised by FABAG that alleged labor unrest and operational delays at the port could disrupt activities and result in the diversion of cargo to neighboring ports.
The GPHA management explained that about a month ago, there was a temporary disagreement involving a section of the dock labor force over the introduction of a 24-hour shift system, which forms part of efforts to align port operations with the government’s 24-Hour Economy policy.
According to the statement copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), the shift system was intended to enhance efficiency, create additional employment opportunities and improve service delivery, adding that under the arrangement, dock laborers work structured eight-hour shifts on a rotational basis, allowing three workers to share one job over a 24-hour period.
The system also offers improved remuneration, guarantees two rest days per week for workers, and promotes occupational health, work-life balance and operational continuity in line with global best practices.
The statement clarified that the disagreement arose when some workers opted to work all three shifts themselves rather than participate in the rotational system, stressing that the situation did not amount to a strike and did not lead to any shutdown of port activities.
“Through engagement and dialogue, the issue was resolved amicably within a short period, and normal operations have continued without interruption,” the GPHA said.
It emphasized that there was no ongoing labor unrest at the port and cautioned against public statements that could unnecessarily alarm port users, investors and the wider business community.
It urged stakeholders to seek clarification from official sources before making public pronouncements on port operations.
Reaffirming its commitment to excellence, GPHA said the Port of Tema remained dedicated to delivering reliable, efficient and world-class port services while supporting key national development initiatives, including the 24-Hour Economy policy.
“The Port of Tema remains open, fully operational, and ready to serve Ghana’s trade and industrial needs,” the statement concluded.
