The Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation on Monday launched the annual productivity week, under the theme ‘A healthy nation is a productive nation.’

In a statement delivered on his behalf at the event in the capital, Labour Minister Utoni Nujoma said this year, productivity week is aimed at demonstrating the importance of productivity in relation to health and at the same time, thanking healthcare workers in the public and private sectors for their continuous dedication and commitment during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said for the first time, productivity awareness raising will be done virtually due to challenges brought about by COVID-19, with activities to be televised including radio interviews, radio adverts and messages on social media. Emphasis will be placed on encouraging all Namibians to be productive amidst the challenges caused by the pandemic.

Nujoma said the year 2021 has been challenging globally and Namibia is not an exception because it is also hard hit by COVID-19, which has claimed many lives nationwide. Namibians should therefore be grateful to all healthcare workers for continuously striving to keep communities safe from COVID-19.

“COVID-19 has put enormous pressure on our healthcare system. Nevertheless, our healthcare workers continue to devote their time and energy to fight this pandemic. As a nation we are humbled by the immense sacrifices, invaluable dedication, commitment and unwavering efforts of healthcare workers in managing COVID-19, oftentimes risking their own lives for the benefit of the nation,” Nujoma stated.

The minister further highlighted that the Namibian Labour Act requires employers to provide safe and healthy working conditions for their employees and for those who come into contact with their business activities. The act also requires cooperation between employees and employers to maintain a safe and healthy workplace.

Through collective involvement, a productive Namibia will result in the economy flourishing and poverty being reduced, Nujoma said.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency