Story by George Yawson Vineh
The Ghana Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (GhATSEA) has announced an industrial strike action, citing prolonged unresolved grievances with the management of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and calling for the immediate removal of the Director of Human Resources.
In a statement issued to Pan African Television,, the association said the decision follows years of unsuccessful engagements, accusing management particularly the Director of Human Resources, Mr. Ebenezer Sagoe of unfair labour practices, poor staff welfare administration, and persistent discrimination against Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEPs).
In the statement, GhATSEA explained that its members play a critical role in maintaining and operating essential air navigation systems, including communication, navigation, and surveillance equipment, which are vital to the safety of Ghana’s airspace.
According to the association, issues such as inequitable salary structures, stalled career progression, improper postings, and lack of transparency in HR processes have remained unresolved despite repeated petitions and negotiations.
The association specifically blamed the Director of Human Resources for what it described as a breakdown in trust between staff and management, arguing that the situation has created a hostile work environment and undermined morale within the aviation safety sector.
GhATSEA stressed that the industrial action was not taken lightly, but has become necessary after all internal resolution mechanisms failed to yield results.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority has acknowledged receipt of the strike notice and assured the public that measures are in place to ensure continued aviation safety and minimal disruption to flight operations. The Authority also reiterated its commitment to dialogue and engagement with all stakeholders.
Industry observers warn that prolonged labour unrest in the aviation sector could have serious implications for flight operations, given the technical nature of GhATSEA members’ responsibilities.
Recommendations:
GhATSEA is also calling for the full implementation of Dr. Imoro’s report, which clearly outlines the measures needed to restore industrial harmony. A committee that was established by HON. Dzifa Attivor, the then Transport Minister, and Ing Simon Allottey, the then Ag. Director General (GCAA) and now the Board Chairman in 2009 as a result of an incident which occurred when GhATSEA embarked on a peaceful protest regarding huge salary disparities.
2. Immediate implementation of the Promotional Needs Petition submitted to Management on 16th July 2025 by the Association.
3. Given the repeated patterns of misconduct and lack of good faith, the association has reached the unavoidable conclusion that the current DHR, Mr. Ebenezer Sagoe, has consistently demonstrated over more than a decade that he only acts when compelled by the Director General or his deputy. His actions from 2012 to date show his reluctance to do what is right unless forced to do so and also his continuous stay in that office appears to be deliberate, serving to create persistent problems that are then left for successive Director Generals to address and resolve.
GhATSEA says they remain committed to peaceful engagement. However, if all issues are not fully resolved by 15th January 2026, they will have no option but to lay down their tools, as continued neglect is no longer tolerable.