By Sifras Kingamkono
The Africa Women in Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Conference & Awards 2025 convened 200 participants from seven African countries in Dar es Salaam, providing a platform for women professionals to exchange knowledge and best practices in workplace health, safety, and living conditions.
The two-day event, held from September 26 to 27, brought together both seasoned practitioners and emerging professionals in the sector.
President and Founder of SOWSHEA, Ms. Funmi Adegblog, emphasized the conference’s role in bridging experience and learning.
“This year’s conference successfully took place in Tanzania. It allows us to discuss different approaches to adapting to societal changes and using intelligent strategies to stay ahead in development,” she said.
Adegblog noted that bringing women together from across Africa strengthens networking opportunities and ensures that lessons from diverse contexts are shared, ultimately contributing to safer and more inclusive workplaces.
Ms. Caroline Khamati Mugalla, ILO Country Director for East Africa, highlighted the critical role of women in advancing workplace safety.
“The goal is to explore what women can contribute and how their involvement strengthens workplace health and safety,” she said.
Mugalla stressed that workplace safety should be inclusive, encompassing all employees regardless of gender, age, or ability.
“Workplace safety and health are universal; everyone deserves protection and a safe environment,” she added, emphasizing the need for policies that are responsive to all categories of workers.
The conference also focused on practical capacity building, with training sessions and workshops designed to enhance skills in environmental, health, and safety management.
Ms. Gloria Ivera, HSE & ESG Consultant and Chairperson of TOHASA, said the association’s training programs allow participants to learn collaboratively and apply knowledge in their workplaces.
“TOHASA organizes free training, allowing participants with varying levels of experience to gain practical skills. Even those without prior exposure can learn by engaging directly with organizations and professionals,” she noted.
Ivera added that workplace safety must consider all sectors—from agriculture and mining to construction—to ensure no worker is left behind.
The event highlighted the broader role of women in shaping workplace p
olicies and enforcing safety standards.
Experts observed that empowering women in health and safety sectors translates to more resilient institutions and safer communities.
By providing a platform for learning, networking, and recognition, the Africa Women in EHS Conference & Awards 2025 set a benchmark for promoting inclusive workplace practices across the continent.