The Africa Vision Zero Network (AVZN) has been at the forefront of promoting occupational safety and health across the African continent since its inception in 2018. The network has achieved significant milestones and continues to expand its influence. Here is an overview of their key activities and achievements.

International Vision Zero Conferences

2021: The inaugural International Vision Zero Conference was successfully held in Lagos, Nigeria. This event marked the beginning of a series of biennial conferences aimed at promoting the Vision Zero agenda. 

AVZN President Nkumbula with the President of the ISSA Prevention Section in the Mining Industry Section, Helmut Ehnes and others at the International Vision Zero Conference In Lagos, Nigeria in 2021.

2023: Held in Livingstone, Zambia, the second conference brought together industry leaders and safety experts. Sponsored by the Workers Compensation Fund Control Board, the event was graced by the Vice President of Zambia and supported by the ISSA Prevention Section in the Construction Industry and its President Karl-Heinz Nötel. 

Bernd Treichel, Senior Technical Specialist in Prevention from the International Social Security Association (ISSA) with the Chair of the ISSA Prevention Section in the Construction Industry, Karl-Heinz Nötel, the Secretary General of the ISSA Prevention Section in the Mining Industry, Helmut Ehnes, the Africa Vision Zero Networks Chairperson, Elizabeth Lungu-Nkumbula and the Vice Chairperson, Dickson Hakeem, in Livingstone, Zambia.

2025: The third conference is scheduled for August 2025 in Kampala, Uganda, preparations for this event were officially launched in August 2024. 

Vision Zero Initiatives

Uganda (August 2024): The Vision Zero Initiative was launched in Kampala, Uganda, setting the stage for the 2025 International Vision Zero Conference. 

Africa Vision Zero Network Chairperson, Elizabeth Lungu-Nkumbula and her team welcoming the Minister of Gender,  Labour and Development at the Launch of the Vision Zero initiative in Uganda 

Zambia’s Construction Sector (October 2024): The network participated in the launch of Vision Zero for the construction sector in Zambia, organized by the Workers Compensation Fund Control Board and attended by the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Brenda Tambatamba.

The Minister of Labour and Social Security, Brenda Tambatamba with the Workers Compensation Fund Control Board CEO, Africa Vision Zero Network Chairperson, Elizabeth Lungu-Nkumbula, speakers and some delegates during the launch of Vision Zero in the Construction sector held in Livingstone, Zambia 

Zambia’s Mining Sector (October 2024): In collaboration with the ISSA Section on Prevention in the Mining Industry and the Zambia Chamber of Mines, the Vision Zero initiative was launched in Zambia's mining sector. This event was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding and supported by the Ministry of Mines.

The Africa Vision Zero Network Chairperson, Elizabeth Lungu-Nkumbula, with the Chairperson of ISSA Prevention Section for the Mining Industry, and the President Zambia Chamber of Mines during the signing of the MoU in Livingstone, Zambia

AFRISAFE Awards and Gala Night (November 2024) 

The AFRISAFE annual conference and awards gala, held in Livingstone, Zambia, saw collaboration with the Africa Vision Zero Network. The Africa Vision Zero Network Chairperson, Elizabeth Lungu-Nkumbula, and a network members were recognized for their exemplary leadership in occupational safety and health.

Africa Vision Zero Network Chairperson, Elizabeth Lungu-Nkumbula Nkumbula and Minister of Labour and Social Security receiving AFRISAFE Awards, in Livingstone, Zambia

Vision Zero in Africa

The Vision Zero Initiative has been successfully launched in five countries: Côte d'Ivoire, Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia and Uganda. Discussions are ongoing with Kenya and Tanzania to launch similar initiatives. 

The Africa Vision Zero Network continues to make strides in promoting occupational safety and health across Africa, with a vision of achieving zero harm in workplaces. Their strong connection and ongoing efforts with international organizations like the International Social Security Association (ISSA) are instrumental in advancing this important agenda.