Kinsfolk and Workers: Social Aspects of Labor Relations Among Ga-Dagme Coastal Fisherfolk

Abstract

"The paper discusses social aspects of labour arrangements in canoe fisheries among the Ga-Dangmes, with particular reference to the place of kinship in labour contracts. Important social features of labour relation in these fishing communities include: the dependence on the family as a labour pool; family-based informal training and financing arrangements; pressure on 'owners of capital assets' (canoe owners, fish smokers/traders) to admit family members into their enterprises, resulting in overcrowding; a local avelfare/social security network that encourages an extensive redistribution of wealth fronl 'owners of capital assets to their 'worker' relatives; the incorporation of authority structures in fishing into local community political power structures. The implications of this overlap between social interests and business interests for the future of the Ga-Dangrne artisanal fisheries industry are addressed. In conclusion it is noted that kinship ties promote effective labour management. On the other hand they frustrate the bargaining position of both canoe owners and their crew, and may thwart innovation in labour transactions."