IPNEWS: After a decade of stalled negotiations and outdated worker protections, the National Port Authority (NPA) has finally signed a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the Dock Workers Union of Liberia (DOWUL) and the Liberia Labour Congress. The signing ceremony, held at the NPA Corporate Headquarters, was met with overwhelming excitement from employees who had waited ten years for updated benefits and improved working conditions.
The historic agreement hailed as one of the most transformative in the Authority’s history brought together key figures, including NPA Board Chairman Rev. Dr. J. Luther Tarpeh, Managing Director Hon. Sekou A. M. Dukuly, Deputy Managing Director for Administration Hon. James R. Bernard, Deputy Managing Director for Operations Hon. Emmanuel Horton, and the President General of DOWUL.
The new CBA significantly enhances worker rights and aligns all policies with the NPA Employee Handbook and the Decent Work Act. Major highlights include:
• 10% salary increase for all employees
• US$50 non-taxable monthly food allowance
• Life and medical insurance coverage for every staff member
• A generous death benefit keeping a deceased employee on payroll for 24 months
• Performance-based promotions and increments, tied to operational capacity and Board-approved budgets
Managing Director Sekou A. M. Dukuly described the signing as a bold demonstration of the Authority’s commitment to fairness, accountability, and improved employee welfare.
Board Chairman Rev. Dr. Tarpeh praised the collaborative spirit of the union leadership and reaffirmed the Board’s unwavering support for policies that protect workers and strengthen institutional efficiency.
The new agreement reflects a major stride under the RESET Agenda, setting a transparent and predictable framework for labor practices at the National Port Authority one that workers say restores hope and dignity after a decade-long wait.
