2025 Budget: Government to formalise export of Ghanaian workers

The government has announced plans to formalise Ghana’s labour export programme, providing structured employment opportunities for Ghanaians abroad while increasing foreign remittances.

Presenting the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament on March 11, 2025, Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson said the initiative aims to create legal migration pathways for skilled and semi-skilled workers under bilateral agreements with selected countries.

“This programme is designed to provide regulated opportunities for Ghanaians seeking employment abroad while ensuring that the country benefits from increased remittances,” Dr Forson stated.

He explained that the government is in discussions with countries in the Middle East, Europe, and North America to facilitate legal migration of Ghanaian workers into sectors such as healthcare, construction, agriculture, and domestic services.

Protecting migrant workers

To protect the rights of Ghanaian workers abroad, Dr Forson said the government will establish legal frameworks and agreements that define employment conditions, wages, and worker protections.

“For too long, many Ghanaians have been forced into irregular migration in search of better opportunities, often facing exploitation and abuse. This initiative will provide a structured and safer alternative,” he noted.

The finance minister stated that the government would work closely with recruitment agencies, embassies, and international labour organisations to ensure that Ghanaian workers receive fair wages, proper documentation, and protection from workplace exploitation.

Boosting remittances and economic growth

The formalisation of labour migration is expected to increase remittance inflows, which currently account for a significant share of Ghana’s foreign exchange earnings.

“Remittances from Ghanaians abroad support families, fund education, and drive investment in local businesses. A structured labour export programme will expand these benefits while ensuring that workers are not exploited,” Dr Forson said.

He added that the government is developing financial literacy programmes to help migrant workers invest their earnings productively in Ghana.

Regulation and monitoring

The programme will be overseen by the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration. The government will also establish a monitoring system to track the welfare of Ghanaian workers abroad and address their concerns.

As part of the programme, the government will strengthen pre-departure orientation and training to ensure that workers are adequately prepared for their new roles and understand the laws of their host countries.

Next steps

Dr Forson said the government will finalise agreements with destination countries and outline clear procedures for Ghanaians interested in participating in the programme.

He urged Parliament to support the initiative, describing it as an opportunity to reduce unemployment and boost national revenue through remittances.