The debate over the salaries of Zoomlion workers has once again taken center stage following renewed criticism from renowned investigative journalist, Manasseh Azure Awuni. The issue, which has persisted for over a decade, resurfaced after Manasseh accused the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) of enabling poor remuneration for sanitation workers under Zoomlion Ghana Limited.
Manasseh took to Facebook to express his disappointment in the contractual arrangement between the government and the waste management company. According to him, the contract does not reflect the hard work and dedication of the sweepers. He described it as unfair and exploitative, noting that these workers earn only GH¢250 a month—an amount he says is unworthy of the labor they provide.
In his posts, Manasseh appealed to Malik Basintale, the Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency, urging him not to renew the contract in its current form. He emphasized that while the third-party company (Zoomlion) benefits significantly from the contract, the workers continue to live under financial hardship.
Responding to these claims, the Jospong Group of Companies, the parent company of Zoomlion, provided clarity. Speaking in an interview on TV3, Madam Sophia, the Chief Communication Officer of the group, stated that the salary figure in question is not set by Zoomlion.
She explained that the contract for sanitation workers is handled by the government through the Youth Employment Agency. According to her, the GH¢250 monthly pay is what is stipulated in the contract approved by the government, not Zoomlion.
“The company only facilitates the work as directed in the agreement. Zoomlion does not determine how much the workers earn,” Madam Sophia added.
As public debate continues, many are calling for a review of the contract to ensure that sanitation workers receive fair compensation for their efforts. Advocates insist that a new contract that reflects better pay and improved working conditions would be a step forward in valuing the essential services of these workers.
