Labour export agreement will ensure legitimate jobs abroad to reduce unemployment – Pelpuo

The Ghanaian government has launched a labour export programme. This initiative aims to reduce the country's high unemployment rate. It will start by sending 2,000 workers abroad.

Rashid Pelpuo, the Minister for Labour, Employment and Jobs, spoke on JoyNews' AM Show. He said this programme is part of efforts to create sustainable jobs for Ghanaians. These jobs will be available both locally and internationally.

Mr. Pelpuo emphasized that the programme follows Ghana’s labour laws. He stated that everyone has the right to work with dignity and respect. The laws ensure that workers retain what they have earned.

Before sending workers abroad, there must be a memorandum of understanding with receiving companies. This ensures compliance with existing laws in Ghana's legal system.

He clarified that the labour export initiative is structured and legal. There must be bilateral relations with other countries before exporting labour. President John Dramani Mahama highlighted the importance of established relationships for this process.

The arrangements are evaluated at both governmental and company levels. The Ministry signs agreements with companies dealing with Ghanaian workers.

Mr. Pelpuo explained how suitable partner countries are chosen. The selection criteria depend on mutual interest in providing and employing labour. When both sides agree, it is considered legitimate to proceed.

Countries interested in Ghanaian labour help fill employment gaps at home. This also provides jobs for those currently unemployed in Ghana.

When asked about future exports beyond 2,000 workers, Mr. Pelpuo shared past statistics. Before the current administration, youth unemployment was at 29 percent among those aged 15 and older.

Many young people who completed their education remain jobless today. The government aims to create local job opportunities first before exporting surplus labour.

Currently, over one million people want jobs but cannot find them all locally. Therefore, it makes sense to offer them opportunities abroad.

Mr. Pelpuo warned against irregular migration and outlined safer alternatives through this programme. He wants to prevent dangerous journeys across deserts or seas by creating a regulated system instead.

This approach allows workers to go through proper channels upon arrival abroad without being exploited or abused.

He assured the public that monitoring worker welfare remains a priority for the government after they are sent abroad.

Labour officers will visit these workers regularly to check on their wellbeing.

The government is building platforms to maintain contact with them as well.

Mr. Pelpuo concluded by emphasizing their safety while seeking honest work abroad.