Cocoa handlers in Ghana are preparing to embark on a strike on Monday to demand a significant wage increase.
According to Raymond Abobiga, a spokesperson for the workers, the current payment of GHS 1.70 per bag of cocoa is inadequate, given the heavy workload involved.
The handlers are pushing for an increase to GHS 3.00 per bag to reflect the increased cost of living and the demanding nature of their work.
Abobiga explained that two seasons ago, the workers were paid GHS 1.20 per bag, but a recent adjustment added only GHS 0.50, bringing the current wage to GHS 1.70 per bag.
Despite the increase, the handlers argue that it is insufficient, especially considering that the price of a bag of cocoa is now GHS 30,000.
“It’s unfair to lift and stack a 64.5-kilogram cocoa bag filled with chemicals for just GHS 1.70. We are demanding GHS 3.00 per bag, and that’s what the strike is about,” Abobiga said.
He also called on colleagues across the country, especially in Tema and Takoradi, to join the strike on Monday, emphasizing the need for unity to press their demands.
The workers hope that the strike will lead to a resolution that reflects the true value of their labor.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
