The Government of Tanzania is intensifying efforts to improve workplace safety and health as the country prepares to mark the World Day for Safety and Health at Work on April 28, with Minister Deus Sangu outlining key priorities ahead of the national event.
The annual observance, led globally by the International Labour Organization (ILO) since 2003, focuses on preventing workplace accidents and diseases while promoting safer and healthier working environments.
It also serves as a moment to reflect on workers who have lost their lives or sustained injuries in the line of duty.
In Tanzania, the commemoration began in 2004 and has grown into a major national platform for advancing occupational safety and health. This year marks the 23rd edition, with national celebrations scheduled to take place in Njombe Region.
The event is being coordinated by the government through the Occupational Safety and Health Authority Tanzania (OSHA) in collaboration with key social partners, including the Trade Union Congress of Tanzania (TUCTA), the Association of Tanzania Employers (ATE), and the ILO.
Speaking ahead of the event, Minister Sangu highlighted this year’s theme, “A Good Psychosocial Working Environment: A Pathway to Thriving Workers and Strong Organisations,” noting that it brings attention to the growing importance of mental health in the workplace.
He said a supportive psychosocial environment is essential in improving productivity, reducing workplace accidents, and strengthening institutions.
He also pointed to increasing global concern over work-related mental health challenges, which continue to affect millions of workers and contribute to economic losses through reduced productivity and rising healthcare costs.
Despite progress, workplace accidents remain a concern in Tanzania, with recent data indicating thousands of reported incidents and fatalities.
The government, Sangu said, remains committed to strengthening enforcement of occupational safety and health regulations to better protect workers.
As part of preparations for the April 28 event, a series of activities have been rolled out across the country.
These include training sessions, public awareness campaigns, sports events, occupational safety awards, and health screening services.
In Njombe, exhibitions on workplace safety and health will be held at Mjimwema Primary School grounds, offering stakeholders an opportunity to showcase innovations and share best practices.
Health screening services will also be provided to workers and the public, targeting both non-communicable diseases and occupational illnesses.
Sangu called on employers, employees and the wider public to take part in the commemoration, emphasizing that ensuring safe and healthy workplaces is a shared responsibility.
The 2026 observance sends a clear message that protecting workers’ physical and mental well-being is critical to national development, and that sustained investment in workplace safety remains key to achieving inclusive economic growth.
