Ghana will extend labour protections to gig and platform workers under new reforms to the Labour Act. The proposed changes aim to recognise emerging forms of digital work. This will ensure workers in the platform economy enjoy legal protections and social safeguards, similar to those in traditional employment.
Dr. Rashid Pelpuo, the Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, confirmed these plans. He spoke at the maiden Labour Law Annual Conference in Accra. The Minister said the reforms would strengthen labour standards as Ghana’s digital economy continues to grow. The review of the Labour Act seeks to align Ghana’s labour framework with evolving work arrangements due to technology.
This initiative responds to the rapid expansion of Ghana's digital economy. The technology and digital economy contributed GHS 12.3 billion to Ghana's GDP in 2022, representing a 5.6% growth from the previous year. This sector also saw a 15% increase in employment in 2023, with many jobs being in the informal gig economy. The lack of formal protections for these workers has presented a challenge.
Dr. Pelpuo expressed confidence that the amendment process would be completed before the year's end. This will allow digital workers to access the same legal protections and labour practices as other workers. He acknowledged that current labour legislation does not explicitly recognise platform workers or influencers. The government is addressing this gap by reflecting these new forms of employment in the revised law.
Ghana is moving through a “new technological era,” Dr. Pelpuo stated. The “content and nature of work are changing,” making it necessary for laws to evolve alongside new employment models. He noted that the government “recognises that these new forms of work exist.” It is incorporating them into the amended Labour Act to ensure digital workers benefit from established labour protections and standards.
Extending social protection to workers in the digital economy will require “legally binding and compelling” reforms. These reforms will be supported by a clear regulatory framework defining obligations for all actors in the platform economy. The Ministry is also investing in institutional readiness. Management and staff are receiving training in Artificial Intelligence and related digital systems. This will build expertise needed to implement future policies.
This move is crucial for Ghana’s broader economic narrative. It aligns with the government's push for formalization and social protection. Such policies aim to improve working conditions and ensure economic stability for a growing segment of the workforce. Similar initiatives in other African countries, like South Africa, have sought to define the employer-employee relationship in the gig economy. This provides a precedent for Ghana's reforms.
The successful implementation of these reforms will mean greater financial security for thousands of gig workers. It will also establish a clearer legal landscape for platform companies operating in Ghana. Stakeholders will closely watch the final details of the legislation. The reforms are expected to enhance Ghana's appeal as a hub for digital innovation. They will also ensure social equity alongside economic growth.