Labour Minister to champion AI-powered workplace safety at inaugural SHEQPA-GH conference
As Ghana intensifies efforts to modernise occupational health and safety practices, the Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment is stepping to the fore to support technological transformation in the workplace.
The inaugural national conference of the Safety, Health, Environment and Quality Practitioners Association of Ghana (SHEQPA-GH) will take place on April 28, 2025, at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City in Accra, under the theme: “Revolutionising Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalisation at Work.”
The Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, Abdul Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, will serve as the Special Guest of Honour. A vocal advocate for safe and inclusive labour conditions, Dr Pelpuo’s participation signals government’s commitment to fostering innovation in workplace safety across all sectors of the economy. His presence is expected to reinforce national efforts to leverage technology in promoting safer and more efficient work environments.
Keynote speaker Richard Kofi Adjei, Chief Inspector of Mines, will present regulatory insights into how artificial intelligence is revolutionising mining safety and compliance, particularly in high-risk zones. His address is anticipated to highlight the benefits of AI in predictive risk management and hazard detection.
Dr Koduah Dapaah, a respected figure in occupational health, will focus on how emerging technologies are reshaping organisational cultures with health-first protocols. His presentation will explore the evolving intersection between human wellbeing and digital systems in the modern workplace.
Also speaking at the event is Desmond Boahen, Deputy Chief Inspector of Mines for Technical Services and Explosives. He will delve into inclusive contractor safety practices, underscoring the human element in technological transformation.
An industry panel discussion will further enrich the conference with perspectives from various sectors. Panellists include Georgette B. Sakyi-Addo, President of Women in Mining Ghana, who will highlight the importance of gender equity in workplace safety; Kwabena Owusu-Akyaw, Senior Processing Manager at Golden Star Wassa Ltd, who will share insights on large-scale safety integration; Kwadwo Opoku Ansah, General Manager at Adamus Resources Ltd, who will advocate for proactive safety cultures; and Ahmed Salim, General Manager of Operations at Atlantic Lithium, who will emphasise the importance of leadership in championing care and wellbeing beyond regulatory compliance.
The programme will also feature Gert Venter, General Manager for Africa at Strata Worldwide. With over 25 years of experience in South African mining, Venter will speak on how product innovation and streamlined safety systems are transforming operational accountability in the sector.
ZiJin Mining has been named the event’s Platinum Sponsor, while Strata Worldwide serves as an official sponsor, signalling strong industry backing for SHEQPA-GH’s mission to raise standards across Ghana’s industrial landscape.
Organisers say the event is not only a professional gathering but a critical launchpad for reshaping the country’s safety frameworks. With stakeholders from government, mining, health, and engineering sectors expected to participate, the conference promises to set a new benchmark for safety, health and environmental stewardship in Ghana.