How can Ghana’s private sector create enough jobs for the millions of young people expected to enter the labor market in the coming years? The Ghana Employers Association (GEA) believes the answer lies in bold policy reforms and stronger collaboration between government and business.
The GEA led by its president Nana Dr. Emmanuel Adu – Sarkodee Afriyie has presented a package of strategic proposals to government to drive enterprise growth and national development.
Job Creation Tax Credit to Support 24-Hour Economy
At the top of the list was a call for the introduction of a Job Creation Tax Credit. According to the Association, this measure will incentivize businesses to employ more workers, while also supporting government’s 24-Hour Economy Policy, a flagship initiative designed to keep industries and services running around the clock to boost productivity.
“The private sector is ready to complement government’s vision,” Nana Dr. Adu-Sarkodee Afriyie stressed. “But we need the right incentives to take on the cost and risk of large-scale employment.”
Strengthening Rural and Community Banks
Another key recommendation focused on the financial backbone of local businesses. The GEA urged government to strengthen the operational and financial capacity of rural and community banks so they can provide consistent and affordable financing to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
SMEs account for more than 80 percent of employment in Ghana, yet access to credit remains a major bottleneck. By revitalizing rural banks, the Association believes local enterprises will gain the support they need to expand, modernize, and create jobs.
Industrial Harmony and Social Dialogue
Recognizing that labour disputes can derail business operations, the GEA also called for greater emphasis on industrial harmony through social dialogue. The Association said fostering trust between employers, employees, and government will create a stable environment for growth and investment.
National Employment Summit
To consolidate ideas and chart a long-term path, the GEA further proposed the establishment of a National Employment Summit. Such a platform, it argued, would bring together government, employers, labour unions, academia, and civil society to craft practical, homegrown solutions for job creation.
A Youthful Labour Force Waiting
The urgency of these proposals is underscored by Ghana Statistical Service data, which shows that about 10 million young Ghanaians will enter the labour force by 2040. Without deliberate policies, the country risks a widening unemployment gap, with serious economic and social consequences.
The GEA is optimistic that, if adopted, its recommendations will strengthen private sector competitiveness, create decent work opportunities, and position Ghana to harness its demographic dividend.
“Employment creation is the true measure of economic success,” Dr. Adu-Sarkodee Afriyie emphasized. “We must act now to secure the future of our young people.”
