There is a shortage of employers in Mozambique who offer flexible working arrangements with the aim of improving employee well-being.

The data is contained in a study on "Benefits and Human Capital" released recently in Maputo.

"This landmark study provides vital information on employee well-being in Mozambique, with a specific focus on work-life balance - an area that Hollard Health prioritizes," said Bruna Quintas from Hollard.

For Quintas, employee well-being must go beyond mere productivity gains, and we empower employers with the tools and knowledge needed to promote a more balanced approach.

The survey, which was sponsored by Hollard Seguros, reveals that almost 80% of the participants confirm that the well-being, physical and mental health of the collectors is part of the companies' strategy. And this is very positive, said Bruna Quintas.

However, 29% of the companies that participated report that they have a formal program to achieve this goal.

Which means that, basically, half of the companies participating here today have wellbeing as a priority, but don't have either the budget or the information about what's available on the market to support them in this objective, which is to focus on wellbeing and the balance of the collector's life.

Hollard Seguros demonstrates its commitment through benefits, tools and experiences tailored to employee well-being. In particular, its fully-paid Preventive Care benefits allow all members to undergo essential health screenings without financial worries.

"Our interactive HealthMov application offers employees a comprehensive analysis of their health, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, stress levels, movement, sleep patterns and BMI. This information is then shared anonymously with employers, providing valuable information on areas of well-being that require attention," explained Quintas.

For example, the source pointed out, "the insurance company organized its flagship Wellness Day in Maputo in October, where it provided practical and very impactful ways for employees to improve their health, at their own pace, on their own terms."

The day focused on the Six Pillars of Health, opening participants up to the idea that well-being isn't just about being fit and toned.

Bruna Quintas stressed that "it's about taking holistic care of their bodies, minds and souls through food and nutrition, preventative and proactive health screenings that harness the power of technology, sleep and mindfulness, and finding the right form of exercise to meet their unique needs".

"By giving every member the tools they need to empower their own health journey, and by giving employers the information they need to facilitate it, we are providing real value to workers' lives and, in doing so, to their families, communities and the country," he said.

Imran Esmael, also from Hollard Seguros, stresses the importance of demystifying organizational culture in the context of creating conditions for well-being. He emphasizes the role of habits, beliefs and behaviors that shape organizational culture and how excessive work demands can lead to diminishing results over time.

Esmael urges leaders to focus on creating a culture that supports employees rather than overburdening top performers. He stresses the challenge of balancing and/or integrating personal and professional life and advocates flexible working arrangements.

"The study underlines the need for flexible working in Mozambique. We may not be talking about completely remote work, but flexibility is crucial."

This source suggests that HR professionals collaborate with managers to implement cultural change, especially when policies are rigid. It calls for a change in the prevailing culture that prioritizes constant delivery over well-being, advocating the creation of a healthy working environment and support systems.

In short, Esmael reflects on the impact of burnout on individuals and families and highlights the role of HR professionals in promoting positive change.

It challenges the audience to reflect on how they contribute to creating a healthy working environment and highlights the need for continuous reflection and adaptation.

The results of the survey and the insights presented by Tempus underline the collective responsibility to prioritize employee well-being in the Mozambican business landscape, with a focus on promoting a culture that supports professional and personal growth.