By Kodjo Adams, GNA
Accra, Oct. 15, GNA – Mr Morgan Ayawine, General Secretary of the Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU-Ghana), has been named among Africa’s 100 Most Influential Persons for 2026.
The honour was in recognition of his contributions to trade unionism, corporate governance, and national development.
This was in a statement issued from ICU-Ghana to the Ghana News Agency in Accra.
The award package comprised a medal, plaque, citation and a book.
The citation accompanying the award commended Mr Ayawine for his exceptional leadership, achievements and contribution to Africa’s growth and development, describing his dedication, integrity and commitment to excellence as an inspiration for positive societal impact.
The award, organised by The Business Executive, was announced at a gathering of distinguished African leaders in Kigali, Rwanda, on September 25, 2026.
A delegation from the organisers presented the award to Mr Ayawine at the ICU-Ghana Head Office, Hall of Trade Unions, in Accra on Wednesday, October 14, in the presence of the union’s leadership, management and staff.
Mr Ayawine was unable to attend the ceremony in Kigali due to other official engagements in Ghana and Europe.
The statement said the selection was based on his leadership and advocacy in trade unionism, corporate governance and government policy direction, aimed at promoting socioeconomic development, business growth and industrial advancement.
It said his interventions had contributed to preventing the transfer of strategic national assets to private investors and facilitating the recapitalisation of some State-Owned Enterprises that might otherwise have collapsed.
The release said Mr Ayawine, who leads a union representing workers in industry, banking, finance, commerce, hospitality, public boards and corporations, the informal sector and other areas of the economy, had maintained constructive relations with employers and the government.
Those efforts, it said, had contributed to industrial harmony and a conducive working environment, supporting sustainable business practices and socioeconomic stability.
The release noted that the recognition followed other awards conferred on Mr Ayawine in 2026.
These included the Ghana Development Awards for Outstanding Contribution to Labour Rights and Industrial Harmony for National Development in March, and a continental award in Zambia in August, naming him Africa’s Most Respected Chief Executive Officer in Labour and Union Leadership.
In a brief remark after receiving the award, Mr Ayawine attributed the recognition to the support of the union’s leadership, management, staff and rank-and-file members, and its social partners.
He expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their collaboration and support and called for continued partnership to advance their shared objectives.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Kodjo Adams