Mortuary workers across Ghana are preparing to launch a nationwide strike beginning Thursday, September 26, 2024, due to poor working conditions and unresolved grievances.
The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) has officially notified the government of their intentions, accusing it of neglecting their demands.
In a statement released on Tuesday, September 17, MOWAG General Secretary Richard Kofi Jordan stressed that the strike comes as a last resort following unsuccessful attempts to address their issues.
Workers have raised concerns over the lack of adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which leaves them vulnerable to diseases and other hazards. Additionally, they highlight the unpaid salary arrears dating back to 2020, as well as the government’s failure to grant financial clearance for the hiring of 500 new mortuary staff.
MOWAG is also pressing for the payment of a COVID-19 bonus that was promised by the President but has yet to be disbursed.
The statement underscored the critical situation, noting that 16 mortuary workers have died in just one year, which emphasizes the need for immediate action on these issues.
Until their demands are fulfilled, MOWAG members will not report to work, resulting in all mortuaries being closed.
Read below the statement