The Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr. Abdul Rashid Pelpuo, has called for urgent and decisive action to tackle the growing threat of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among Ghana’s workforce, describing workplace wellness as both a moral and economic necessity.

Speaking at the Ghana Health and Labour Summit 2025 on October 10, organised by MentalPulse Africa under the theme “Mobilising Against NCDs: The Role of Workplaces in Safeguarding Employees’ Wellness”, Dr. Pelpuo asserted that the health of workers is the bedrock of productivity in the national economy.

“The theme for this day… is not just timely but also a moral and economic necessity,” he stated.

Dr. Pelpuo announced the launch of the Ghana Workplace Health Incubation and Employee Safeguarding Toolkits, urging all stakeholders to “commit resources to promoting and sustaining worker health.”

He underscored the need for strengthening workplace inspections, instituting safety and health protocols, and improving compliance and enforcement mechanisms across the country.

Emphasising the value of human capital, Dr. Pelpuo urged employers to invest more in their workers, explaining that “the most vulnerable assets are workers, not machines or buildings; hence, the true return on investment lies in sustained health and commitment.”

He concluded by calling on trade unions, professionals, and civil society to actively advocate for, monitor, and champion policies that safeguard the well-being of workers.

The Minister added that his ministry has already established regional taskforces to watch out for the welfare of workers in every phase of life.

“May this summit be remembered not just for the documents we launched but also as a powerful catalyst for a healthier, more productive, and resilient workforce for Ghana,” Dr. Pelpuo said.