The International Training Centre for the International Labour Organisation's ACTRAV Programme will be conducting a five-day training session for trade unions in African regions.

The training brings together trade union representatives from across Africa to promote effective occupational safety and health supply chains.

Regional Desk Officer for Africa ILO ACTRAV in Geneva, Hilma Mote, said, "According to the ILO estimates, 81% of work-related deaths globally are due to occupational diseases, whilst 19% are due to injuries. In Africa, this burden is magnified by weak enforcement, limited data, and chronic underinvestment in occupational safety and health systems. Vulnerable sectors such as the informal economy, domestic work, construction, and mining are particularly exposed. These are sectors where many of our members work, often without adequate training, equipment, or legal protection."

ILO stands ready and committed to supporting the government, employers, and workers in promoting occupational safety and health as a fundamental principle and right at work.

"The training, it's therefore my hope that this training will place you in a better position to become, you know, the implementing vehicle and the voice of advocacy, you know, for all what these conventions are intending to afford," said Minister of Justice and Labour Relations Wise Immanuel.

The minister further emphasised that accidents that are happening to workers must be reported, and employers must be reasonable enough to compensate workers that are injured in workplaces.

The training ensures that trade union representatives are united in purpose, action, and commitment to ensure that every workplace is safe, every worker is protected, and every voice is fed.

The training, which started on Monday and ends Friday, will also touch on emerging challenges posed by digital transitions, artificial intelligence, and climate change, along with practical and innovative solutions.