On 22nd October 2024, the AfriSAFE Free Empowerment Practical Training Program took place at the New Government Complex, Lusaka, with the goal of equipping participants from various sectors with essential emergency response skills. The event brought together key stakeholders, marking a significant step towards fostering a culture of safety and preparedness across Zambia.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Mr. Cyprian Mayamba, Director of the National Productivity and Development Department, highlighted the Government’s unwavering commitment to safety as a fundamental right and moral obligation. He underscored the importance of occupational safety for the nation’s workforce, which directly contributes to economic development and prosperity. Mr. Mayamba applauded the collaborative efforts of AfriSAFE and its partners, stating that empowering individuals with practical life-saving skills would play a crucial role in advancing Zambia’s safety standards and economic resilience.
AfriSAFE CEO, Mr. Femi Da-Silva, addressed the audience, emphasizing that safety is a collective responsibility that starts with individual commitment. He pointed out that the program aims to change the narrative by equipping participants with vital skills such as First Aid, Emergency Evacuation, and Mental Health Management. “Accidents can happen anywhere, anytime, and timely intervention can save lives,” he noted, reinforcing the initiative’s mission to cultivate a safety-first mindset across communities.
Ms. Hellen Mwamba, Managing Director of SMTS Zambia Ltd, echoed these sentiments in her speech, encouraging participants to view safety as a continuous process. “Safety is not just a gadget; it’s a mindset. It’s the vigilance we practice every day to prevent accidents and protect lives,” she stated. Ms. Mwamba stressed the importance of integrating the lessons learned from the training into daily routines and reminded attendees that even small actions, such as ensuring proper equipment handling or avoiding phone use while driving, contribute significantly to a safer environment.
The event featured participation from various organizations, including teacher unions, Zambia Occupational Health and Safety Association, youth groups, and trade unions like the Federation for Free Trade Unions of Zambia. Their involvement underscored the shared commitment to workplace safety across sectors. The presence of diverse stakeholders highlighted the role of social dialogue in enhancing safety standards nationwide.
Mr. Mayamba and other speakers emphasized the economic benefits of prioritizing safety, noting that a healthy workforce leads to increased productivity, reduced costs, and higher morale. The Ministry’s ongoing collaboration with AfriSAFE and other stakeholders aligns with its strategy to promote safety awareness and advocate for continuous improvements in occupational health standards.
The AfriSAFE Free Empowerment Practical Training Program concluded with a strong call to action: safety is an ongoing responsibility that involves everyone. Participants were encouraged to apply the skills gained during the training to help ensure a safer, healthier, and more prosperous Zambia. This initiative not only provided immediate benefits to attendees but also laid the groundwork for a long-term cultural shift towards safety-first practices.