Tamale, March 16, 2026 – Shea industry workers in Ghana have formalised a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) aimed at improving labour relations, enhancing working conditions, and boosting productivity across the sector.
The agreement was concluded at the end of a three-day meeting in Tamale, part of ongoing efforts to organise shea workers nationwide and establish clear operational standards that protect both employees and employers.
The event was coordinated by the General Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), in partnership with the Ghana Employers Association (GEA) and supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO) through the Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work Programme, with funding from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD).
Key stakeholders, including labour representatives, employers, development partners, and civil society organisations, convened to finalise the framework and review sector-wide standards.
Mr Wumbei Abdulai, Northern and Upper East Regional Industrial Relations Officer of GAWU, highlighted that the shea sector, predominantly staffed by women, had lacked an organised labour framework. He said the CBA would protect workers’ rights, strengthen standards, and improve sector performance, providing a structured framework for employers and employees alike.
Hajia Rabiatu Abdul-Karim, President of the Ghana Shea Employers Association, lauded the ILO’s support, noting that previously, industry players operated largely independently. She said the new agreement fosters collective action, improves collaboration, and enhances the credibility of Ghanaian shea producers seeking international certifications, including organic and fair-trade standards. She urged the government to provide additional financial and policy support to expand the sector.
Ms Charlotte Esenam Afudego of SECO emphasised that the programme promotes decent work and private sector development, creating a mutually beneficial framework in which employers uphold responsible business practices and workers enjoy improved conditions.
The signing marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s efforts to professionalise the shea industry, strengthen labour rights, and enhance productivity across one of the country’s key agricultural value chains.
GHBUSS
16 March 2026
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