The Cocoa Carriers Association has suspended its indefinite sit-down strike, which began on Monday, October 7, following a productive meeting with the management of the Cocoa Marketing Company (CMC) and a representative from the Ghana Cocoa Board. This development comes after the association’s members at the Tema, Takoradi, and Kumasi depots of CMC had suspended all work, demanding resolution of unresolved issues.
According to Raymond Atanga Abobiga, National Chairman of the Cocoa Carriers Association, management has requested workers to return to their posts, promising to address concerns about their conditions of service within a week. This decision was made after negotiations with the directors and COCOBOD, where it was concluded that work would continue while management reconsidered the workers’ increment.
The workers have resumed duties, hopeful that their grievances will be resolved within the agreed timeframe. As of Tuesday, October 8, workers at the Tema, Takoradi, and Kumasi depots have returned to work. Initially, there was confusion regarding Abobiga’s work status, but top management intervened, instructing him to report for duty.
Abobiga expressed optimism about the outcome, stating, “We decided to work today and also expect something good from them.” This positive tone reflects the association’s willingness to cooperate with management to find a mutually beneficial solution.
The strike’s suspension is a significant step forward in resolving the cocoa carriers’ concerns. The Ghana Cocoa Board’s involvement indicates the severity of the issues and the need for collaborative problem-solving.
The Cocoa Carriers Association’s decision to suspend the strike demonstrates their commitment to finding a peaceful resolution. By returning to work, the workers demonstrate their faith in management’s promises.
In the past, cocoa carriers have taken strike action to press for better working conditions and pay. This time, the association seeks improvements in their conditions of service.
The agreement to address concerns within a week is a crucial milestone. The workers’ patience and cooperation will be essential in ensuring a successful outcome.
As the cocoa industry is vital to Ghana’s economy, resolving these issues is critical. A harmonious relationship between management and workers will benefit the sector as a whole.
