The President also called on Organised Labour to engage more with the government on their concerns instead of resorting to strikes.

According to him, over the past seven years, government has been consistently engaged in dialogue for trade unions to resolve industrial disputes amicably.

This, he says has fostered the stable industrial environment necessary for the implementation of policies and programmes which in turn attract investment and boost economic growth.

Speaking at the Quadrennial Congress of the Trade Union Congress on Tuesday, August 20, he said “The preference for social dialogue over strike is commendable as it promotes peace social cohesion, mutual respect and trust."

President Akufo-Addo's comments come in the context of several unions declaring strikes during his tenure.

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President Akufo-Addo encouraged trade unions to take advantage of the relationships built through social dialogue to form stronger partnerships, stressing that these partnerships would empower the Trade Unions to exercise their influence more effectively to benefit all.

He noted that it is natural for Trade Unions to advocate for better conditions of service for their members due to the challenges the nation faces.

However, as a government, he asked “for moderation taking into account the global events and the impact of our local economy.”

President Akufo-Addo further urged the trade unions to advocate for policies that ensure that technological advances such as the rise of automation, artificial intelligence and the gig economy do not lead to job losses or inequality as they represent both opportunities and challenges.