Minister pushes for AI use to mitigate workplace accidents

DODOMA: EMPLOYERS in Tanzania are being urged to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) in production and service delivery, as digital systems and robots can perform hazardous tasks previously handled by humans helping to significantly reduce workplace accidents.

The call comes in light of official data revealing that by June 2023, Tanzania had spent a total of 27.93bn/- on compensations related to workplace accidents more than double the 13.19bn/- recorded by June 2021.

Speaking in Dodoma yesterday, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Youth, Employment, and Persons with Disabilities), Mr Ridhiwani Kikwete, made the remarks as Tanzania prepares to join the global community in commemorating the World Day for Safety and Health at Work on Monday.

This year’s theme, “Revolutionising Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitisation at Work,” emphasises the need for employers to start integrating AI technologies to improve workplace safety and productivity.

“The use of AI and digital technologies is transforming how we work, communicate, and maintain safety,” said Minister Kikwete.

He noted that AIpowered machines and systems can operate faster, with greater precision, and without fatigue, making them wellsuited for tasks that pose risks to human workers.

He added that advanced sensors now allow for early detection of hazards such as toxic gases and fire, while digital learning platforms enable employees to gain skills without leaving the workplace or incurring travel costs.

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However, while highlighting the benefits, the Minister acknowledged concerns over job displacement particularly among low-skilled workers as automation and robotics become more widespread.

“Technology that is not well understood can also lead to psychological distress among workers. System failures can disrupt operations and digital platforms are vulnerable to cybersecurity threats,” he warned.

Despite these challenges, he stressed that AI should be seen as a tool, not a threat.

“Adopting AI and digital technology doesn’t mean the elimination of all jobs it signals a transformation. We will see increased demand for tech professionals, machine operators and AI system supervisors. But this transition requires proper training and capacity-building for both current and future workers,” he added.

“Technology and artificial intelligence are not our enemiesthey are powerful tools. What we need is to use them correctly, with a strong focus on worker safety and respect for human rights,” he emphasised.

This year’s national celebration of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work will be held at Mandewa Grounds in Singida town, where Minister Kikwete will serve as the official guest of honour.

Highlighting the importance of workplace safety, he shared that Tanzania recorded 4,993 workplace accidents between July 2019 and June 2021, with the industrial and manufacturing sectors reporting the highest numbers.

“These numbers underscore the consequences of neglecting occupational safety and health. It’s not an extra cost, it’s a smart investment,” he said, urging employers to prioritise a safe working environment.