Zambia Moves to Curb Workplace Deaths as Global Toll Hits 2.3 Million
Written by Mafken FM Newsroom on 30 January 2025
By Respite Kaoma
The Occupational Health and Safety Institute (OHSI) has taken a significant step towards improving workplace safety in Zambia, as the country joins the global community in addressing the alarming numbers of work-related deaths.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting in Kitwe district on the Copperbelt, Institute’s Director Martha Chakulimba emphasized the urgent need for improvement, citing the staggering statistic that approximately 2.3 million workers die every year from work-related accidents and diseases.
Ms. Chakulimba says this staggering number is unacceptable, hence the need for a collective responsibility to ensure that workers are protected from occupational hazards.
Ms. Chakulimba also expressed optimism that the revision of the Occupational Health and Safety Act Number 36 of 2010 will be crucial in ensuring a safe environment in Zambia’s industries.
OHSI- Board Chairperson, Grace Chibwa, noted that the institution has an 80-year history of providing cardinal services to ensure worker protection.
Ms. Chibwa has however, stated that, with the evolving workplace hazards due to technological advancements and climate change, a robust system is necessary to provide protection.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Labour and Social Security Director George Kashinka highlighted the importance of occupational health and safety in Zambia’s economy, citing the need to align the Occupational Health and Safety (OSH) Act with international best practices.
