Labour Minister calls for people-centred approach to Africa's future of work

The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr Abdul Rashid Pelpuo, has called for a people-centred approach to Africa’s future of work, with greater investment in skills, innovation and technology.

He said Africa’s transformation must be driven by its people, innovation and openness to new ideas, particularly as technology continues to reshape the world of work.

Dr Pelpuo made the call on Wednesday at the opening of the Global Conference on Human Resources Africa in Accra.

Speaking on the theme, “Leading with Openness: Shaping Africa’s Growth through Technology, Skills and Culture,” he urged human resource professionals and business leaders to play a leading role in preparing the continent for changes in the workplace.

He said Africa’s youthful population offered the continent a strong foundation for economic growth, but noted that this advantage must be supported with investment in digital skills, entrepreneurship, vocational training and lifelong learning.

Dr Pelpuo also called for stronger collaboration and wider access to technology to create opportunities for people to develop their talents, ideas and creativity.

He said Africa’s cultural diversity could also support the growth of globally competitive creative industries while helping to preserve and promote indigenous knowledge through digital technology.

The Minister said the future of work should not be seen only as a technological revolution, but also as an opportunity to use technology to empower people and expand economic opportunities.

He therefore urged human resource professionals to lead with vision and integrity while making sustained investment in people a priority.

Dr Pelpuo said Africa’s ability to adapt to the changing world of work would depend on how well it combined technology with skills development, culture and opportunities for its growing workforce.