The Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations (MoJLR) commemorated World Day for Safety and Health at Work this week, highlighting the importance of mental wellbeing, workplace safety and stronger support systems for employees.

The minister of Justice and Labour Relations, Wise Immanuel, in a speech delivered on his behalf, says growing psychological challenges in workplaces show a need for improved inspections and a more focused approach to protecting employees and emerging risks.

"The Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations received notifications of 15 psychosocial-related cases over a period of four years, of which two resulted in death and two in major injuries. These statistics call for a compilation. I'm pleased to inform you that the ministry recruited an additional 37 per cent labour inspectors during last year's financial year."

The Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) states that they launched a new safety procedure aimed at improving the prevention, detection and response to occupational diseases within Namibia's mining sector.

Her speech was read on her behalf. 

"The Standard Operating Procedures are aimed at strengthening risk management, air detection, surveillance, and response mechanisms for tuberculosis, HIV, and occupational lung disease within the mining sector. This three-milestone operational framework demonstrates our collective commitment to not only combating occupational diseases but also to advancing the broader agenda of employee health promotion and wellness." 

The Trade Union Congress of Namibia's (TUCNA) Secretary General, Mahongora Kavihuha, explains that strong union representation, together with workplace safety committees, remains one of the most effective ways to prevent accidents and protect workers.

"The Federation is maintaining that the strong trade union presence along with joint safety committees and designated workplace safety representatives is the most active way to prevent accidents and protect the workers."