What are the Maternity Leave rights in Ghana?

In Ghana, maternity leave is a right protected by labor law to support expectant and new mothers in the workplace. Here’s a guide to understanding eligibility, benefits, and rights for maternity leave in Ghana.

Eligibility for Maternity Leave in Ghana

Female employees in Ghana qualify for maternity leave if they have been with their current employer for at least six months of continuous service. This ensures that both the employee and employer have established a working relationship before leave benefits are provided.

Duration and Structure of Maternity Leave

Maternity leave in Ghana is structured to last a minimum of 12 weeks. This time can be allocated before or after childbirth, but at least 8 weeks must be taken after the child is born. This arrangement helps new mothers recover and care for their newborns in the crucial early weeks.

In cases where the mother experiences medical complications related to the pregnancy or childbirth, an additional 2 weeks of leave may be granted. This requires the submission of a medical certificate to verify the need for extended leave.

Pay During Maternity Leave

Maternity leave in Ghana is fully paid, ensuring that employees continue to receive their regular salary during the entire leave period. The responsibility for paying maternity leave lies directly with the employer, who must provide full pay throughout the 12-week minimum duration.

Rights Upon Returning to Work

After completing maternity leave, employees in Ghana are entitled to return to their former position or a comparable role within the organization. This protection means that mothers will not lose any rights, benefits, or standing they had before taking maternity leave.

Additional Support for Nursing Mothers

Ghanaian labor law provides additional support for nursing mothers upon their return to work. Employees who are breastfeeding are entitled to daily breaks for breastfeeding, typically totaling one hour per day. This additional time is provided to support new mothers as they balance work and nursing.