Windhoek: Deputy Executive Director in the Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations, Aune Mudjanima, on Tuesday praised all stakeholders involved in the development of Namibia’s Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Bill. She said the completion of the OSH Bill’s drafting marks a significant milestone in the country’s commitment to safeguarding workers’ well-being.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the Bill was developed through regional consultations, incorporating input from the Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations, employers’ associations, and trade unions. Mudjanima, who is responsible for labour relations, was speaking at the opening of the OSH Bill validation workshop, attended by government officials, workers’ representatives, and employers’ associations.
‘I also want to thank the representatives from various sectors of the economy and the dedicated OSH professionals who have been instrumental in shaping this important legislation,’ she said. Mudjanima emphasised that the OSH framework offers a holistic approach to workplace safety, addressing both physical and mental health. ‘Managing occupational and non-occupational psychosocial hazards reduces incidents through effective control mechanisms,’ she said.
She further highlighted that the Namibian government recognises the benefits of a safe and healthy working environment as a driver of performance, productivity, and economic growth. ‘Therefore, I cannot emphasise enough the significance of a comprehensive occupational safety and health legal framework, as it improves legal compliance; promotes the prevention of work-related injuries and work-related diseases, which may result in permanent disability and exclusion from work; and fosters a positive working environment, thereby enabling sustainable enterprises,’ she said.
Also speaking at the start of the two-day workshop, the International Labour Organisation’s Occupational Safety and Health Specialist for Eastern and Southern Africa, Peneyambeko Aina Munkawa, commended Namibia’s efforts in prioritising workplace safety. She highlighted the launch of Namibia’s first national OSH policy in 2021, which was developed through extensive stakeholder consultations. ‘The policy reflects the collective aspirations of stakeholders and reaffirms the government’s commitment to the wellbeing of both workers and enterprises through the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases,’ Munkawa said.