The Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, says Ghana’s drive for economic growth must go hand in hand with efforts to protect workers and provide them with safe and healthy working environments.

He said a productive economy cannot be sustained if workers are constantly exposed to unsafe conditions that threaten their health and wellbeing.

Dr Pelpuo made the remarks ahead of the 2026 Health, Environment, Safety and Security (HESS) Leadership Conference, which is expected to bring together key players from the public and private sectors to discuss workplace safety and environmental protection.

According to the Minister, improving working conditions is not simply a labour issue but an important requirement for building a secure and sustainable economy.

He said workers need confidence that they can carry out their duties in a safe environment and return home to their families in good health.

Dr Pelpuo also expressed the Ministry’s interest in the development of Ghana’s proposed Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Bill, which is expected to provide a comprehensive legal framework for workplace health and safety.

He described the Health, Environment, Safety and Security (HESS) community as an important partner in government’s efforts to improve safety standards across both public and private workplaces.

The 2026 HESS Leadership Conference, themed “Building Leadership that Protects Lives, Preserves the Environment and Secures the Future,” will bring together stakeholders from sectors including mining, petroleum, manufacturing, food, consultancy and government.

Advisory Council Member of the HESS Leadership Conference, Prince Obeng Afful, said the organisation is ready to work with the Ministry to strengthen Ghana’s occupational safety framework.

He said the conference would provide an opportunity for industry professionals to contribute their expertise and practical experiences to the development of the proposed OSH Bill.

The conference is expected to produce recommendations aimed at improving occupational safety, protecting the environment and creating healthier and more sustainable workplaces across the country.