The Industrial and Commercial Workers Union of Ghana (ICU-Ghana) has called on government to intensify efforts to ensure that recent economic improvements translate into real relief for workers and the wider population.

In a Christmas message signed by its General Secretary, Morgan Ayawine, the union acknowledged some positive economic signals recorded over the year, including a relatively stable cedi, single-digit inflation and easing interest rates. However, it stressed that these gains have yet to reflect in the daily lives of ordinary workers.

According to the ICU, the cost of essential items such as food, rent and utilities remains high, leaving many workers struggling despite the improved macroeconomic indicators.

“Government is doing its bit, but it must do more to meet the expectations of ordinary workers and the populace, who have endured economic hardship for far too long,” the statement said.

The union reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for workers’ rights, particularly fair and adequate remuneration, until a more balanced and just relationship between labour and capital is achieved.

Encouraging workers, the ICU noted that while not all expectations for the year were met, the modest gains should serve as a foundation for better outcomes in 2026. It urged workers not to lose hope but to remain productive and resilient as the country works to consolidate recent economic progress.

The union also commended government for the full recapitalisation of the National Investment Bank Limited, describing the move as critical to enabling the bank to play its role in supporting national economic growth.

At the same time, ICU-Ghana expressed concern about the financial difficulties facing COCOBOD and called on government to take urgent steps to address the situation. It further appealed for targeted support for struggling state-owned enterprises, including PBC Limited, Volta Star Textile Limited, Graphic Communications Group, New Times Corporation, New Neoplan Ghana Limited, the Pwalugu Tomatoes Factory, and efforts to revive ALUWORKS.

According to the union, revitalising these entities would help create jobs for unemployed youth and boost socio-economic development.

On labour relations, ICU-Ghana acknowledged cooperation with employers and other social partners in promoting productivity. However, it stressed the need for strict compliance with collective agreements and Ghana’s labour laws, warning that violations undermine industrial harmony.

The union cautioned employers who engage in anti-union practices, casualisation of labour, and denial of workers’ lawful benefits to desist, noting that such actions have serious consequences.

It concluded by urging Ghanaian workers to continue making sacrifices through hard work to support sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity.