CUA to mark ICU Day with push to deepen financial inclusion

By Christabel DANSO ABEAM

The Ghana Co-operative Credit Unions Association (CUA) limited will join the global cooperative community to commemorate the 77th International Credit Union (ICU) Day with renewed commitment to intensify financial inclusion.

Held under the theme: “Cooperation for a Prosperous World,” the national celebration will happen on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at the Great Hall of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi.

Bringing together members, partners and key actors across the cooperative finance ecosystem, this year’s ICU Day will highlight the role of credit unions in achieving inclusive and  community-focused financial services.

A statement issued by the Association noted that although the global event was marked in October, the country’s celebration was postponed to November to enable Ghana to host the all African Credit Union  (SACCA) congress which was held at in Accra on October 12th-17th, 2025.

The 2025 ICU Day edition also holds special significance as it coincides with the 70th anniversary of the establishment of first Credit Union in Ghana and Africa – marking seven decades of promoting the cooperative spirit, community development, and financial inclusion.

The national event, organised by the CUA, under the chairmanship of C.O.P. Dr. Otu-Nyarko, will begin with a colorful float through the streets of Kumasi at 7:00 a.m., symbolising unity and community pride, followed by the official ceremony at 10:00 a.m. at the Great Hall.

Distinguished guests expected to grace the occasion include Professor Rita Akosua Dickson, Vice Chancellor of KNUST, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Douglas Okonah Frempong, General Overseer, Centre For Christian Outreach Ministries as Special Guest of Honour. Other notable attendees include the Dadiesoaba Hene and the Registrar for the Cooperatives Societies.

Since its inception in 1948, International Credit Union Day  provides a global platform to reflect on the achievements and values of the global credit union movement.

Rooted in the philosophy of “people helping people,” credit unions remain steadfast in their mission to offer accessible financial services, promote savings, extend affordable loans, and invest in the communities they serve.

This year’s theme aligns with the United Nations’ declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives, celebrated globally under the slogan “Cooperatives Build a Better World.”

The statement indicates that the shared focus underscores the vital role of cooperation in building resilient, people-centered economies that prioritise collective well-being over profit.

“In Ghana, credit unions continue to play an essential role in advancing financial inclusion, particularly for underserved populations. The Ghana Cooperative Credit Unions Association is using this year’s celebration to encourage members and credit unions nationwide to highlight how cooperation fosters shared success,” the statement highlighted.

The Association further urged unions to organise community-focused events such as open-house sessions, financial literacy workshops, and member appreciation activities that showcase the impact of cooperative finance.

It also encourages sharing of inspiring stories of members who have benefited from cooperative support, individuals who have used savings and affordable credit to start businesses, expand livelihoods, or achieve financial stability.

By doing so, the movement hopes to attract new members, particularly young people and women, and strengthen partnerships with schools, churches, and local organisations to promote cooperative values.

On November 15, 2025, all members of the Ghana Cooperative Credit Union family are invited to come together in Kumasi to celebrate the enduring spirit of cooperation.

By joining hands, the movement reaffirms its commitment to building a more inclusive and prosperous Ghana and a better world for all.

ICU Day 2025 is therefore positioned not just as a commemoration but as a call to action to strengthen the movement’s contribution to economic inclusion and shared prosperity.

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