The Private Security Guards Association of Ghana (PSGA-G) has raised serious concerns about the poor conditions of service for its members, calling for immediate intervention from regulatory authorities.

Roland Obibah Mensah, National President of the PSGA-G, highlighted the gruelling working conditions, noting that despite members working 12 hours a day with only one day off per week, their monthly earnings remain alarmingly low.

In an interview on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM’s Frontline with host Kwabena Agyapong, Mensah disclosed the dire salary situation, stating that private security guards are paid between GH¢500 and GH¢800 per month.

The highest payment a private security officer reportedly receives is still less than GH¢1,000.

“The work we do in this country is crucial, but we are not being treated fairly."

Mensah asserted, explaining that many guards work 12-hour shifts yet earn between GH¢500 and GH¢700, with GH¢800 being the absolute maximum.

He stressed that these payments are inadequate to cover basic necessities such as food, rent and other essential living expenses.

The Association has been actively seeking redress, submitting a petition and holding meetings with the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak.

Mensah explained, “We have taken steps to meet with the Interior and Labour Ministers to present our concerns. Key among them are remuneration, insurance, social security and better conditions of service. We have been cheated for far too long.”

He confirmed that the Minister pledged to first address the critical issue of poor pay, with other concerns to be tackled subsequently.

Furthermore, the Minister reportedly revealed that plans are underway to retrain and license private security guards to ensure they operate under strict laws.

Mensah also pointed out widespread exploitation in the sector.

According to investigations by the Association, some private security companies charge client institutions as much as GH¢2,000 or more per guard but pay the guards as little as GH¢500.

Regarding mandatory contributions, Mensah noted that since the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) began enforcing compliance, most companies are now paying social security contributions for their guards.



Including private security in the national economy

Mensah also commented on the 24-hour economy policy introduced by President John Dramani Mahama, describing it as a positive initiative.

He argued that private security guards must be included in this policy to help address the shortfall in public security personnel across Ghana.

He concluded by noting that a significant portion of the Association’s members are educated, with the minimum qualification being a Senior High School certificate.

Due to the scarcity of jobs, he said, many have been compelled to work as private security guards despite the poor terms of employment.

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