An economist and senior lecturer at the Department of Liberal Studies at Kumasi Technical University (KsTU), Mr. Johnson Addai-Asante, has welcomed the 9% salary increment for public sector workers announced by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) under the Single Spine Salary Structure (SSSS) for the 2026 fiscal year.
Speaking on Kumasi-based Ultimate Cup of Tea show, Mr. Addai-Asante explained that the key factor influencing the determination of the minimum wage is the rate of inflation.
“One key purpose of increasing salaries is to cushion workers and consumers against fluctuations in the purchasing power of the currency,” he stated. “If inflation stands at 20%, it would not make economic sense to increase wages by less than that rate. At least, the increment should help ease the burden workers face due to rising prices.”
Mr. Addai-Asante noted that Ghana is currently experiencing a single-digit inflation rate of around 8%, hence the 9% increase in wages “makes economic sense,” as it slightly exceeds inflation and provides a small real income gain.
“Although the 9% increment may not be the best, given the current economic circumstances, it is a reasonable adjustment,” he added. “Workers should accept it in good faith and hope for a better review next year if the economy improves.”
He further advised Ghanaian workers to cultivate a culture of saving despite the modest increase in salaries.
“Now that we’ve received a 9% raise, it’s important to plan and save. When inflation eventually rises from single digits to double digits, those savings can help cushion us against the impact of higher prices,” he cautioned.
Story by: Emmanuel Anyam
