The Volta Regional Minister and also dean of Regional Ministers, James Gunu, has emphasized that sustainable national development cannot be achieved through isolated efforts, stressing the need for collaboration among government institutions, traditional authorities, civil society organizations, the private sector, and citizens.
He made the remarks while addressing participants at the 2026 national Labour Conference held in the Volta regional capital, Ho.
Under the theme “Strengthening Industrial Harmony as a Catalyst for Accelerated Economic Growth and National Development”, he underscored the importance of unity, partnership, and shared responsibility in accelerating Ghana’s development agenda.
According to Mr. Gunu, the country’s development aspirations can only be realized when all stakeholders work together towards a common goal.
He noted that the government alone can not address the numerous socio-economic challenges confronting the nation without the active support and participation of every segment of society.
“Your Excellency, the theme for this year’s conference, Strengthening Industrial Harmony as a Catalyst for Accelerated Economic Growth and National Development, is both timely and insightful.
“The theme reminds us that sustainable national development can not be achieved through isolated efforts. Lasting progress is built through partnership, dialogue, and shared commitment to the common good.
“It requires continuous learning to help individuals to come together, appreciate differing perspectives, and work collectively towards solutions that advance our national interests,” James Gunu said.
The Minister also indicated that lasting progress is built through partnership, dialogue, and shared commitment to the common good.
He said, “It requires continuous learning to help individuals to come together, appreciate differing perspectives, and work collectively towards solutions that advance our national interests.”
Mr. Gunu also said that the consensus building does not suggest that we will always agree to every issue. Rather, it reflects our willingness to engage one another with mutual respect, to negotiate in good faith, and to place the welfare of our nation above sectional interests.
“This spirit of engagement has served Ghana well and remains one of our enduring strengths of our democracy.”
“Your Excellency, the tripartite system occupies a special place in Ghana’s labour and GTP framework. It represents a partnership founded on the understanding that government, employers, and organised labour each have distinct but complementary responsibilities in promoting economic growth, social justice, and national development.”
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing policies and programmes that improve the welfare of citizens while ensuring that no community is left behind.
“Your Excellency, the government provides leadership and creates an enabling policy environment for enterprise and employment. Employment drives investment, innovation, and job creation, while organised labour keeps focus on the acquisition and welfare of workers whose dedication and productivity sustain our economy.”
“When social partners work together in an atmosphere of trust and mutual understanding, they create the conditions for stable industrial relations, improved productivity, enhanced investment, and sustainable economic growth.”
In conclusion, James Gunu encourages all participants to engage openly, respectfully, and cross-contractively.
“Let us approach our deliberations with a shared understanding that our collective effort today will contribute to building a stronger economy, our productive workplaces, and a more prosperous future for our nation,” the Volta Regional Minister added.
Participants at the event commended the Minister’s call for collaboration and pledged their continued support towards initiatives that promote sustainable development and socio-economic transformation in the Volta Region and across the country.
