The State Minister for Older Persons Dominic Mafabi Gidudu has called upon private sector players, particularly industries in Jinja and Njeru, to prioritize workplace safety following an increase in accidents leading to severe injuries and loss of lives.
The minister made the remarks while officiating the opening of a two-day training workshop on the safe handling of chemicals at Source of the Nile Hotel in Jinja.
The training has brought together private sector representatives and labour officers from Jinja City and the surrounding areas to enhance safety measures in workplaces.
Gidudu emphasized the urgent need for industries to implement stringent safety protocols to protect employees from occupational hazards.
"The rising number of workplace accidents is alarming, and we must all take responsibility in ensuring safer working conditions, especially in industries handling hazardous materials," he stated.
The workshop, organized in collaboration with key stakeholders, aims to equip participants with essential knowledge on chemical handling, risk management, and compliance with occupational health and safety standards.
Labour officers in attendance expressed commitment to enforcing workplace safety regulations and engaging industries in proactive accident prevention strategies.
The private sector representatives also acknowledged the importance of the training, pledging to implement better safety measures within their respective industries.
The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to improving labour standards across the country and urged companies to invest in employee safety training and protective gear to minimize risks at workplaces.
The training is expected to strengthen the capacity of industries and labour officers in ensuring compliance with safety regulations, ultimately reducing workplace accidents and promoting a safer working environment.
On March, 12, Samuel Kasumba a supervisor at GM Sugar Factory in Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, died in industrial accident when he was crushed by a running sugar mill during his night shift.
According to police reports, the incident occurred at around 3:47 AM.
It is alleged that Kasumba was cleaning the old boiler while it was still running when the machine pulled him in, crushing him instantly.
Following the accident, fellow workers halted operations in protest, citing rampant workplace accidents at the factory.
Reports indicate that GM Sugar Factory has recorded multiple fatalities in the past year, with three workers losing their lives and several others suffering injuries in 2024