The General Secretary of the Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU), Morgan Ayawine, has called for urgent reforms to Ghana’s economic system, warning that workers’ sacrifices are not translating into improved living conditions.
In his 2026 International Workers’ Day message, Ayawine acknowledged the resilience of Ghanaian workers but questioned why years of hard work have failed to deliver meaningful economic benefits.
“Hard work must produce results and meet expectations, but over the years, the opposite has been the case,” he said, calling for a critical review of the country’s economic structure.
While commending government efforts to stabilise the economy, he stressed that macroeconomic gains must be reflected in the daily lives of ordinary citizens.
He noted that many workers continue to struggle with rising costs of rent, utilities, transport, and food, despite reported economic improvements.
Ayawine also urged the government to prioritise job creation and adopt more sustainable employment strategies.
“Macroeconomic stability alone does not guarantee livelihoods,” he said, emphasising the need for policies that directly improve workers’ welfare.
He further raised concerns about labour practices, cautioning employers against exploitation through casualisation and outsourcing.
According to him, contract workers who perform the same duties as permanent staff deserve equal treatment and fairness.
Despite the challenges, Ayawine reaffirmed workers’ commitment to national development but said the responsibility lies with economic managers to deliver tangible relief.
He encouraged workers to remain hopeful and resilient amid current hardships, assuring them that conditions can improve.
“Stay strong and press on. Solidarity forever,” he urged.
