The Ministry of Transport has confirmed it is actively working to address the grievances of railway workers who have gone almost a year without pay.
This comes following threats by the Railway Workers Union of Ghana (RWU) to suspend railway operations nationwide and hold a mass demonstration on September 30, 2025, if the government fails to settle outstanding salaries dating back over a year.
The union highlighted that the delay in payment has caused severe financial and social hardships for workers and their families.
Workers allege that repeated appeals to the Ministry of Transport, the Ghana Railway Company Limited (GRCL), the National Labour Commission, Parliament’s Transport Committee, and the Ministry of Labour have gone largely unheeded, leaving them with limited options.
Responding to the concerns during the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, Transport Minister Joseph Nikpe acknowledged the challenges facing the railway sector and reassured that solutions are underway.
“The railway industry has suffered neglect, and President Mahama has shown commitment to revitalise it to meet demand,” he said.
“The Ghana Railway Company’s operations have declined over the years, affecting its capacity to generate internal revenue to pay staff and cover operations. We have engaged with the Ministry of Finance to find a more sustainable solution going forward.”
He emphasized that the government is prioritising the welfare of railway workers.
“We feel for the workers, and we are getting close to getting them their salaries,” he added.
In addition to addressing arrears, Mr. Nikpe revealed that the Ministry is working with security agencies and the Lands Commission to remove encroachments along railway lines.
“We are launching a campaign to clear encroachers from the railway’s right of way and secure land titles for railway lands. This will allow contractors access to the sites needed to advance railway projects,” the Minister explained.
This dual approach aims not only to settle outstanding salaries but also to create the conditions for sustainable growth and operational efficiency within Ghana’s railway sector.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
