The Widows and Orphans Movement (WOM) has partnered with ActionAid Ghana to introduce new Gendered Workplace Policies and Sanctions. These updates address issues like harassment, long working hours, and unreasonable demands placed on trainees in the informal sector.
Key changes include fixed times for passing-out ceremonies (8:00 am to 6:00 pm), with fines for violations. Trainers cannot force trainees to buy specific gifts. Trainees who miss work without approval must work extra hours. Also, trainees are limited to one pregnancy during their three-year training; violations will extend the training period to four years.
Various stakeholders, including trade associations and CHRAJ, signed the new policies. WOM and ActionAid Ghana helped ensure the policies were legally binding.
Officials emphasized the need for awareness and education. Fati Abigail Abdulai said consultations were key in shaping the policies. Lawyer Abdulai Jalaldeen noted that the amendments would standardize policies and reduce exploitation in the informal sector.
