The Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA) has intensified efforts to promote employee wellbeing and create a healthier work environment through a staff sensitisation programme on mental health awareness.
The programme, held under the theme, “Building a Healthier Workplace through Mental Health Awareness and Staff Sensitization,” formed part of the Authority’s commitment to fostering a supportive, productive and emotionally healthy workplace.
It brought together management and staff of the Authority to discuss issues relating to mental health, workplace wellbeing and the need to cultivate a positive organisational culture.
Speaking on behalf of the Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of Finance and Administration, Mr Musah Sibiri Hamidu, the Director of Business Development and Research, Mr Lawrence Oei-Boateng, underscored the importance of prioritising mental health in modern workplaces.
He said organisations must deliberately create environments that encourage openness, emotional support and staff wellness in order to improve productivity and overall organisational performance.
According to him, employee wellbeing remains a critical factor in achieving institutional growth and ensuring effective service delivery.
“Creating a healthy workplace is no longer optional. It is a necessity for sustaining productivity, innovation and staff satisfaction,” he stated.
A resource person from the Mental Health Authority, Dr Yaw Amankwah Arthur, delivered a presentation on the topic, “Workplace Toxicity and its Impact on Employee Wellbeing and Organisational Productivity.”
He educated participants on the signs and characteristics of toxic work environments, factors that contribute to unhealthy workplace cultures and practical strategies for addressing such challenges.
Dr Arthur stressed that unresolved workplace toxicity could negatively affect employees’ mental health, reduce morale and impact organisational efficiency.
He therefore urged both management and staff to work collaboratively to build respectful, inclusive and supportive workplaces.
As part of the programme, staff members participated in self-assessment exercises aimed at helping them evaluate their emotional wellbeing, stress levels and workplace behavioural patterns.
The exercises encouraged participants to reflect on their mental health, recognise early warning signs of stress and appreciate the importance of seeking professional support when necessary.
The session also highlighted the role individuals play in maintaining positive workplace relationships and contributing to a healthy organisational culture.
The GFZA reiterated its commitment to promoting staff welfare through continuous awareness programmes and initiatives that support mental health and overall wellbeing.
The Authority indicated that such interventions would help strengthen resilience among employees while fostering a motivated and productive workforce capable of driving the organisation’s mandate.
The programme forms part of ongoing efforts by the GFZA to build a culture of care, inclusiveness and employee wellness across the institution.
