The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA), Dr. Frederick Appoh, has confirmed that measures are underway to address months of unpaid salaries owed to railway workers, following the release of government funds.
According to Dr. Appoh, GH₵11.6 million has been approved to cover part of the arrears, after concerns were raised by the Railway Workers Union over delays stretching up to 14 months.
Speaking on Accra-based Citi FM, he explained that the issue predates his tenure, with the backlog dating back to 2024.
Dr. Appoh also revealed discrepancies uncovered during a review of staff records. While official figures initially suggested a workforce of about 1,300, a forensic audit later confirmed the actual number stands at 960.
To manage the situation, the Authority, in collaboration with the Ghana Railway Company Limited, explored internal revenue options, including the disposal of scrap materials, which generated roughly GH₵21.5 million. However, part of the amount was offset after contractors laid claim to unpaid consignments valued at about GH₵10 million, reducing the funds available for salary payments.
“We have received GH₵21.5 million, but the Ministry was going through the reconciliation process. I am happy to announce that yesterday, the Ministry of Finance signed the release of GH₵11.6 million,” he said.
“It has been sent to the Ministry of Transport to pay our brothers and sisters at the Ghana Railway Company Limited. This will take up to seven months, looking at the entire workforce.”
Dr. Appoh added that the Authority will engage key stakeholders, including the Trades Union Congress, the Railway Workers Union, the National Labour Commission, and the Ministry of Transport, to agree on a fair and sustainable payment plan. He also noted that additional revenue avenues are being explored to ensure the remaining arrears are cleared and to prevent a recurrence of the issue.
ALSO READ:
