Mortuary workers issue fresh strike threat

The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) has urged the government to clear nine months of unpaid allowances, warning of a strike if demands aren’t met. General Secretary Richard Kofi Jordan made the call on June 11, 2025, during an interview with 3FM Sunrise, stressing the workers’ financial struggles.

The workers, who handle deceased bodies in hospitals, say they’ve been without their special allowances since September 2024. Jordan highlighted that these funds are crucial for their safety, as they lack enough protective gear like gloves and masks, putting them at risk of infections.

MOWAG has been negotiating with the government for better pay and conditions for years. Last year, they paused a strike to give officials time to act, but little has changed. Jordan said members are frustrated and ready to stop work if the arrears remain unpaid by July 2025.

The association also wants the government to hire 500 new workers to ease the workload. They’ve asked for talks with the Finance Ministry to settle the arrears and improve their conditions. The government has not yet responded to the latest warning, raising fears of disrupted mortuary services.

This issue follows a pattern of labor disputes in Ghana’s health sector. Mortuary workers are vital but often overlooked, and their threats of action could affect hospitals nationwide. The public is watching closely as the deadline looms, hoping for a resolution to avoid a crisis.