All mortuaries to shut down from Sep 26 as workers strike

The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) has declared an indefinite nationwide strike, set to begin on Thursday, September 26, 2024. This decision follows ongoing disputes with their employer over unmet demands, including the provision of adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and the payment of salary arrears dating back to 2020.

In addition to these demands, MOWAG is calling for financial clearance to recruit 500 more mortuary workers, as well as the payment of the COVID-19 bonuses promised by the President to those in the mortuary sector. The association has expressed frustration over what they describe as a deliberate lack of response from the authorities regarding their grievances.

MOWAG has raised alarm about the increasing number of deaths among mortuary workers, attributing it to hazardous working conditions and a lack of action from the government. They emphasized that no further negotiations or discussions would take place until all of their demands are met.

The association has instructed its members to close all mortuaries across the country and stay home, advising the public to prepare for the impact of the shutdown. The strike is expected to severely disrupt mortuary services nationwide if the issues are not addressed before the strike takes effect.