The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, says Ghana has signed a bilateral labour agreement with the State of Qatar to ensure the safe, structured and legally protected deployment of Ghanaian workers to the Middle Eastern country.

Speaking on the AM Show on Monday, January 12, 2026, Dr Pelpuo said the agreement, signed by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, forms part of the government’s broader effort to create organised employment pathways for Ghanaians abroad while safeguarding their rights under clearly defined labour frameworks.

According to him, Qatar’s initial request focuses largely on technical and specialised skills, including engineering, mechanical work, and other vocational areas.

“The agreement allows Ghanaian workers to be engaged across different sectors, based on demand and qualification, but within a formal structure that guarantees safety, dignity, and accountability,” he explained.

Dr Pelpuo stressed the importance of regulating and formalising overseas recruitment, warning that informal travel arrangements often leave workers exposed to abuse and exploitation.

“It is important that the people who will be going are properly documented and formalised. That way, if there are any challenges, there is a clear agreement to fall on, and the person or institution that signed the memorandum of understanding can be held accountable,” he said.

He added that the deal will also educate Ghanaian workers on both Ghana’s labour laws and Qatar’s employment regulations, including standards for worker treatment and dispute resolution mechanisms.

Dr Pelpuo disclosed that during engagements with Qatar’s Foreign Minister, concerns were raised about previous reports of labour-related abuses involving migrant workers in the country. However, he said Qatari authorities assured Ghana that those issues were linked to past systems and that their labour laws have since been significantly strengthened.

“They assured us that the right things will be done, and that workers’ welfare is a priority,” he noted.

Welcoming the agreement, the Minister described it as a critical step in protecting Ghanaians seeking opportunities abroad.

“So you don’t just pack your bags when you hear that someone is needed somewhere, only to later run into trouble with no one to help you. This agreement has been done to keep Ghanaians safe and to ensure there is support and accountability if anything goes wrong,” he added.