Decent Work in Ghana’s Gig Economy: Legal Gaps and Reforms

Abstract

Ghana’s gig economy, driven by platforms such as Uber and Bolt, provides economic opportunities but also exposes workers to vulnerabilities due to limited labour protections under the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651). Considered independent contractors, gig workers lack access to social security, collective bargaining, and safety protections. This paper examines legal gaps in the labour law framework and advocates reforms aligned with International Labour Organisation (ILO) standards, proposing a hybrid “dependent contractor” category, platform-funded social protections, and algorithmic transparency. It addresses specific challenges, including the identified legal gaps, institutional constraints, and informality, while leveraging the Digital Ghana Agenda and promoting multi-stakeholder collaboration. Although the paper recognises that much remains to be done to integrate gig workers into the labour law framework, it acknowledges that a phased approach fosters decent work and positions Ghana as a leader in Africa’s digital labour regulation.