Household production effects of non-wage benefits and working conditions in Ghana

This study examines the impact of improved non-wage benefits and working conditions on household production of formal-sector workers in Ghana, with a focus on gender and geographical disparities—areas often overlooked in labour studies on developing countries. Using data from the 6th Ghana Living Standards Survey and instrumental variable estimation, we find that better working conditions reduce weekly paid work hours, increasing household production time, particularly among men and rural households in paid or formal employment. Enhanced benefits encourage these employees to prioritize household tasks, leisure, and self-care, fostering a healthier work-life balance. Our findings underscore the potential for improved working conditions to increase male participation in unpaid household labour. We recommend that Ghana’s Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations expand the limited five-day paternity leave across more sectors to support male household contributions. Additionally, strengthening labour protections for informal workers is crucial to addressing household labour disparities and enhancing worker welfare.