By: Fatou Krubally
The Secretary-General of the Gambia National Trade Union Congress, Ebrima Garba Cham, has raised concerns over widespread abuse and exploitation of workers in the country, including unlawful terminations, unpaid claims, and poor working conditions.
Delivering his May Day 2025 address, the Secretary-General condemned the mistreatment of workers, citing numerous violations across sectors. “The Gambia National Trade Union Congress is alive to the poor working conditions, exploitation of employees, unlawful and or unfair terminations, irregular employment contracts, unpaid claims as a result of industrial accidents, unreported cases to the Injuries Compensation Commissioner, redundancies without payment, unremitted social security contributions,” he said.
Describing these practices as “unacceptable,” the union chief said measures are underway to ensure justice and improved protection for workers.
He called for collaboration between workers, employers, and the government to create a peaceful and productive labour environment. “It is only in a productive, peaceful, and stable environment that you could realise your potential to the fullest,” he said.
The Secretary-General reaffirmed the union’s commitment to defending workers’ rights and resolving grievances through dialogue rather than confrontation.
He concluded by underscoring the importance of dignity at work, warning that economic justice cannot be achieved unless labour rights are fully respected and protected.