GAWU celebrates 50 years of service to sugar industry, labour movement

The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) celebrated 50 years of service to the sugar industry and the broader local labour movement, under the theme “Born of struggle, built for justice.”

President Dr Irfaan Ali praised the union’s enduring commitment to workers’ representation, describing it as a symbol of resilience.

“GAWU’s fight for the rights of workers has been nothing short of legendary. It has stood firm in the face of adversity, advocated for fair wages, humane working conditions and respect for the dignity of labour. They have defended workers across generations,” he said.

Founded by the late President Dr Cheddi Jagan under the former Guyana Industrial Workers Union, GAWU has received steadfast support from the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Ali said, noting the party’s role in representing sugar, bauxite, and forestry workers over five decades.

He added that the PPP government has revitalised the sugar industry and continued advocacy for workers, pledging ongoing support for unions and organisations that represent employees’ rights