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HRsolution » COUNTRIES » Ghana

Population

Ghana has about 34 million inhabitants (as of 2024). The population is ethnically diverse, with the Akan, Mole-Dagbani, Ewe, and Ga-Dangme being the largest ethnic groups. Ghana has a young population, with a high proportion of people under 25 years old.

Capital

The capital of Ghana is Accra. It is the economic, political, and cultural center of the country and the largest city in Ghana.

Economic Power

Ghana has one of the fastest-growing economies in West Africa. Key sectors include mining (especially gold and bauxite), agriculture (cocoa, cashew nuts), and oil and gas production. The GDP per capita is about USD 2,500 (as of 2023). Despite economic growth, inequality remains a significant issue, particularly between urban and rural areas.

Culture

Ghana has rich cultural diversity, shaped by its many ethnic groups and their traditions. Traditional music, dances, festivals, and crafts such as Kente cloth and gold jewelry are important cultural elements. Ghanaian cuisine is varied, with popular dishes like Fufu, Jollof rice, and Banku.

Currency

The official currency of Ghana is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS).

Health Insurance and Social Security System

Ghana has a National Health Insurance System (NHIS) that provides access to basic healthcare services for most of the population. The social security system includes pensions, unemployment, and health insurance. However, the quality of healthcare varies greatly, especially between urban and rural areas.

Costs for Employers

Employers in Ghana must contribute about 13% of gross wages to social security, covering pensions and health insurance. Additional costs may arise from benefits such as transportation or meal allowances.

Salaries and Bonuses

Salaries in Ghana vary significantly depending on the industry, qualifications, and experience. The legal minimum wage is about 1,488 GHS per day (as of 2023). Bonuses are common in many sectors and are often performance-based.

Payroll

Payroll in Ghana includes the basic salary, possible allowances, bonuses, and statutory deductions for taxes and social security contributions.

Public Holidays

Ghana has several public holidays, including:

  • New Year’s Day (January 1)
  • Independence Day (March 6)
  • Labor Day (May 1)
  • Republic Day (July 1)
  • National Day (September 21)
  • Christmas (December 25)
  • Various religious holidays such as Good Friday, Easter, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha.

Working Hours

Regular working hours in Ghana are 40 hours per week, spread over five working days. Most offices and companies operate from Monday to Friday, with weekends off.

Vacation

Employees are entitled to at least 15 working days of paid annual leave, with entitlements increasing with length of service. Additional leave days are available for special occasions such as weddings or family obligations.

Incapacity for Work

In the event of illness, employees are entitled to sick leave, which is covered by social security. The exact duration and compensation depend on the employment contract and legal provisions.

Termination/Severance Pay

Notice periods and severance pay regulations in Ghana vary depending on the length of service and contractual terms.

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