GFL urges Akosombo Textiles Limited to pay overdue salaries

Mr. Abraham Koomson, the Secretary General of the Ghana Federation of Labour

Mr. Abraham Koomson, the Secretary General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), has called on the management of Akosombo Textiles Limited (ATL) to immediately pay their workers' overdue salaries.

The workers have not received their salaries for two months, which has severely impacted their productivity and motivation.

Mr. Koomson expressed concern over the state of ATL, a factory that could have significantly benefited the country if it had received the necessary support from the government.

He noted that the lack of salary payments has reduced worker productivity and motivation. However, with Vice President Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s scheduled visit to the area, management is now attempting to address the issue.

The unionists, during their interaction with newsmen in Tema, also called on the government to pay urgent attention to the struggling textiles industry, warning that these companies are on the brink of collapse.

He specifically mentioned the Ghana Textiles Printing (GTP) company as one needing critical intervention.

Mr. Koomson accused the government of deliberately neglecting the textile industry to facilitate the sale of these companies to their associates.

He claimed that these plans are detailed in the controversial Agyapadie Document, which he described as dangerous and called for the prosecution of those involved with it.

The GFL Secretary-General commended the Ghanaian media for their keen interest in the Agyapadie Document, which is rumoured to list the country's assets. He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the management of the country's assets.

The GFL, in calling on the government to prioritize the textiles industry and ensure that workers receive their overdue salaries, also demanded transparency and accountability in the management of the country's assets.

The GFL Secretary-General noted that the government can encourage and support companies to adopt sustainable practices and innovation in the textile industry; “this can include providing incentives for companies that adopt sustainable practices, investing in research and development, and creating policies that support sustainability.”

Mr. Koomson also suggested to the government that it work with companies to improve supply chain management in the textile industry, including providing training and resources for companies to improve their supply chain management practices, investing in infrastructure, and creating policies that support fair labour practices.

He said the government's support and initiatives can play a crucial role in addressing the challenges faced by the textile industry in Ghana. Additionally, the industry's stakeholders, including companies, workers, and consumers, also have a vital role to play in promoting sustainability and responsible practices.

On the role of consumers in supporting sustainable textiles, Mr. Koomson suggested that the public reduce their purchasing of second-hand clothing and buy made-in-Ghana products.

“Buy well-made, timeless pieces that won't end up in landfills soon. Limit purchases from fast-fashion brands that prioritize speed and low costs over sustainability,” he said.

Mr. Koomson reiterated that sustainable textiles are an important aspect of reducing our environmental impact, and every small change we make can add up to make a big difference.