The General Secretary of the Industrial and Commercial Workers' Union (ICU-Ghana), Morgan Ayawine, has stated that despite positive economic indicators, the living conditions of the ordinary Ghanaian worker remain largely unchanged, with the prices of essential needs still out of reach.

In his 2025 Christmas message to union members and workers nationwide, Ayawine acknowledged government efforts but insisted more must be done to alleviate the burdens workers have endured "for far too long."

"While there have been some positive economic indicators during the year... these gains are yet to translate meaningfully into improved living conditions for the ordinary worker and the generality of Ghanaians," Ayawine said in the release issued on Wednesday.

He cited a relatively stable exchange rate, single-digit inflation, and reduced interest rates as commendable milestones. However, he stressed that the cost of food, rent, and utilities continues to squeeze the average worker.

The union leader commended the government for fully recapitalising the National Investment Bank Limited this year but presented a list of critical state-owned enterprises in need of urgent financial rescue.

He specifically called on the government to address the financial challenges at COCOBOD and to bail out struggling entities like PBC Limited, Volta Star Textile, Graphic Communications Group, New Times Corporation, New Neoplan Ghana, and the Pwalugu Tomatoes Factory. He also urged for processes to be finalised to revive ALUWORKS, arguing that such moves would create jobs and boost socio-economic development.

Turning to the private sector, Ayawine warned employers against anti-union practices, casualisation of jobs, and the denial of rightful wages and benefits. He emphasised the need for strict adherence to Collective Agreements and Ghana’s Labour Laws to ensure industrial harmony.

"Unfortunately, some employers continue to infringe upon these instruments," he noted, admonishing those who trample on labour rights to desist, as such actions "carry serious consequences."

Despite the challenges, Ayawine encouraged workers to remain resilient and to use the "modest gains" of 2025 as a springboard for greater productivity in 2026.

The ICU-Ghana, one of the country's largest trade unions, consistently advocates for better working conditions and remuneration.