The Day 1 Congress of AfriSAFE 2025 began on an inspiring note as Engineer Lamu Audu, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Mainstream Energy Solutions, delivered a powerful keynote address titled “The Business Case for Safety.”
Addressing delegates, industry leaders, and safety professionals gathered at the congress, Audu highlighted the importance of prioritizing safety not just as a moral obligation but as a strategic business advantage.
“Good morning all. It’s my pleasure to join my colleagues under one roof for the purpose of workplace safety. My appreciation goes to the board for organizing this congress year after year. It keeps improving. I chose the topic ‘The Business Case for Safety’ because most people overlook it. Historically, discussions around safety have centered on regulatory compliance and moral obligations. Many employers have long perceived safety as a cost center rather than a value driver,” he said.
Speaking further, the Mainstream Energy CEO noted that safety failures in industries such as hydropower often lead to operational disruptions, reputational damage, and financial penalties. “In the hydropower industry, safety failures disrupt generation, damage reputation, and attract penalties. But well-managed safety systems enhance reliability, reduce life-cycle costs, and improve profitability,” he explained.
Audu also cited a report by the International Labour Organization (ILO), which established that “for every $1 invested in occupational safety and health, there’s a $2.20 return through reduced absenteeism, downtime, and productivity gains.”
He concluded with a call to action for organizations across Africa, stressing that safety should be viewed as a smart business move. “Investing in safety is not just ethical — it’s good business. We invest in our people, our assets, and the economic future of our region. Thank you,” he said.
His message set a strong tone for the AfriSAFE 2025 Congress, aligning with the event’s vision to promote safety excellence and a culture of preventive responsibility across workplaces in Africa.
Sponsors for this year’s event include:
Zambia Sugar, Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), Golden Africa Djibouti, SAVENDA group, Seplat Energy, ASKY Airline, Russel Smith Nigeria Limited, SMTS Zambia , Joint Professionals Training and Support International (JPTS)/Global Wealth University, Hybrid Group, isafety group, Bellie&Rooster, Yikodeen Company Limited, Nigeria Institution of Safety Engineers (NISafetyE), African Occupational Compliance Institute, The Bristlecone Experience, Safety Consultants & Solution Providers Limited (SCSP), Sttrutt Integrated Services Limited, HSSEC Solutions Limited, Fog, Imperium & Aurelius (FIA), Milary Limited, Paddie (App), Kaileys Consortium, Finsbury Heinz Limited, Qodar Safety Consults, Ampak Nigeria Limited, Prime Atlantic Safety Services, African Gas & oil Company Ltd, Quavatel Limited , Kerry Group, Hormuud Telecom, Safety Consultancy GODEF West Africa and Maersk.
Key partners include the Africa Vision Zero Network and the Alliance for Women in EHS, Kenya.
Media Partners: EHS Unplugged Podcast, Standard group, QHSE Directory, Sierraloaded.
Official Travel Partner: Movejeje.
