The Private Security Guards Association of Ghana (PSGA-G) has voiced serious concerns regarding the poor conditions of service for its members, calling for immediate intervention from regulatory bodies.
Roland Obibah Mensah, National President of the PSGA-G, highlighted the grueling working conditions, noting that despite members working 12 hours a day and being entitled to only one day off per week, their monthly earnings are alarmingly low.
In an interview on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM’s Frontline with host Kwabena Agyapong, Mr. Mensah disclosed the dire salary situation saying Private security guards are paid a paltry Ghc500 to Ghc800 per month.
The highest payment a private security officer receives is reportedly less than Ghc1,000.
“The work we do in this country is crucial, but we are not being treated fairly,” Mr. Mensah asserted, detailing that many guards work for 12 hours but receive between Ghc500 to Ghc700, with Ghc800 being the absolute maximum.
He stressed that these payments are insufficient to cover basic necessities such as feeding, rent, and other financial needs.
The Association has actively sought redress, submitting a petition and holding a meeting with the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mabarak.
Mr. Mensah reported on their engagement: “We have taken steps to meet with the Interior and Labour Ministers to present our concerns. Key among them are remuneration, insurance, social security, and better conditions of service. We have been cheated for far too long.”
He confirmed that the Minister pledged to first address the critical issue of poor pay, with other key issues to be tackled subsequently.
Furthermore, the Minister reportedly revealed that plans are underway to retrain and license private security guards, ensuring they operate under strict laws.
The PSGA-G President pointed out a significant issue of exploitation within the sector. Based on the Association’s investigations, some private security companies negotiate with client institutions, charging Ghc2,000 or more for each guard’s services but ultimately pay the guards as little as Ghc500.
Regarding mandatory contributions, Mr. Mensah noted that since the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) began enforcing compliance, the majority of companies are now paying social security contributions for their guards.
Including Private Security in the National Economy
Mr. Mensah also touched upon the 24-hour economy policy introduced by President John Dramani Mahama, stating it is a positive initiative.
He argued that private security guards must be included in this plan to help address the shortfall in public security personnel across Ghana.
He concluded by noting that a significant portion of the Association’s members are educated, with the minimum qualification being a Senior High School graduate.
Due to the scarcity of jobs, many have been compelled to work as private security guards despite the unacceptable terms of employment, he said.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
