By George M.O. Williams
Freetown, Sierra Leone — 28 April 2026 — African Global Logistics (AGL) joined the global community in commemorating World Safety Day, using the occasion to spotlight the dangers of alcohol and substance abuse in the workplace and their impact on productivity, safety, and organizational performance.
Held under the theme “Work Hard, Work Smart,” the event brought together staff across departments in a renewed commitment to fostering a culture of safety at the Freetown Terminal.
The day featured a series of practical safety demonstrations designed to reinforce best practices and strengthen awareness among employees. The Administrative Department emerged as the overall winner, with the Operations Department and Protec Security securing first and second runner-up positions. The exercises underscored teamwork, preparedness, and adherence to safety protocols in high-risk operational environments.
Sessions also educated staff on the effects of substance abuse, particularly alcohol—the most commonly misused substance—and its impact on decision-making, reaction time, and job performance. Discussions highlighted early warning signs of dependency and the importance of compliance with workplace safety policies.
Delivering the keynote address, Captain Fabjanko Kokan described the observance as a clarion call for employees to lead by example and adopt a proactive approach to safety. He emphasized that safety is a shared responsibility requiring collective vigilance.
Aiah Mokuwah echoed concerns over substance abuse in professional settings, warning that misuse of alcohol and prescribed medication can impair judgment, reduce productivity, and heighten the risk of workplace accidents. He further linked substance misuse to mental health challenges such as stress and anxiety, stressing the need for awareness and support systems.
Eustace Rogers, Director of Technical Services at the Sierra Leone Shipping Agency, reaffirmed safety as a core operational value. He noted that while port operations are vital to national development, they inherently involve risks that must be managed through strict adherence to safety standards.
“World Safety Day is about renewing our commitment. Let us continue to work in an environment where safety comes first, incidents are reported promptly, and everyone feels responsible,” Rogers said.
The event concluded with a strong call for continuous vigilance and accountability, reinforcing AGL’s dedication to maintaining a safe and healthy working environment for all employees.