Workers of PBC Limited, a licensed cocoa-buying company, have gone 27 months without receiving salary payments. They are renewing their appeal to President John Dramani Mahama to fulfil his promise to revamp the struggling company.
This severe delay in payments has plunged workers into significant financial hardship. Many struggle to meet basic family needs, cover transport costs, and pay medical and school expenses. Casual workers face even longer delays, with payments overdue for over 36 months, at a maximum allowance of GHS 350.00 per month.
PBC Limited plays a vital role in Ghana's cocoa industry, a key contributor to the national economy. The company's struggles reflect broader challenges in commodity sectors and the impact of delayed payments on livelihoods. The cocoa industry contributes significantly to Ghana's GDP and export earnings.
Osbert Baffoe Ansah, Chairman of the PBC Professional and Managerial Staff Union, spoke at a press conference in Kumasi. He revealed the extent of the unpaid salaries and unresolved deductions. Mr. Ansah emphasized that these long-term arrears undermine workers' trust, industrial harmony, and their very livelihoods.
President Mahama had previously pledged to restore stability and strengthen PBC's operations during his campaign. These assurances gave workers hope for improved company fortunes. However, workers say their situation has worsened nearly two years into the administration. The union also raised concerns about persistent underfunding for operations. This underfunding causes disruptions, poor planning, and job insecurity among workers.
A major point of contention is the government’s takeover of the Buipe Shea Processing Factory. This factory is a wholly-owned subsidiary of PBC Limited. Mr. Ansah stated the union's concern that the associated debt burden from this takeover remains with PBC Limited. He is calling on the government to either return the facility or assume responsibility for its debts.
These operational and financial challenges threaten the company's future and the stability of its workforce. If the government does not intervene, there could be further disruptions in the cocoa buying sector. This situation demands a prompt response from decision-makers to prevent a complete collapse of the company. Markets and industry stakeholders will closely watch how the government addresses these issues affecting a critical sector player.