The cost of living in Ghana is hitting hard on workers, especially those in the informal sector. ‘
The rising prices of basic necessities such as food, transportation, and accommodation are making it difficult for low-income households to make ends meet.
According to a report by the Women in Informal Employment Globalizing and Organizing (WIEGO), the cost-of-living crisis has pushed many informal sector workers into poverty. Many of them are now living more frugally in order to cope with the financial strain.
These workers are calling on the government for assistance to help cushion the effects of the escalating cost of living. They are asking for cash grants, soft loans with low or no interest, and support for their livelihoods. They also want the government to intervene in controlling inflation on essential items and provide food aid, secure housing, educational assistance, and support for childcare.
In addition to financial assistance, these workers are also demanding recognition of their workplaces as legitimate sites of work, as well as investment in their occupational health and safety. The report highlights how the deteriorating food security and rising prices are affecting the physical and mental health of workers.
To improve the health status of these workers, the Ministry of Health is being urged to remove barriers to registering for the National Health Insurance System and make the registration process free and simple for all workers in informal employment.
Overall, these workers are seeking support from the government to help them navigate the challenges brought about by the increasing cost of living in Ghana.
