By George M.O. Wiliams
Freetown – July 15, 2026: The Government of Sierra Leone, in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), ECOWAS, and the European Union, has launched a two-day workshop to strengthen the protection of domestic workers under ILO Convention 189.
Held at the Family Kingdom Resort in Freetown, the workshop brought together government officials, employers, trade unions, labour inspectors, and development partners to discuss practical measures for enforcing decent work standards for domestic workers, including migrant workers.
Domestic work remains a major source of employment in Sierra Leone, particularly for women and young people, but many workers face informality, low wages, long hours, and limited social protection. Despite ratifying ILO Convention 189 in 2021 and enacting the Domestic Workers Act, challenges persist in enforcement and awareness.
Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, described domestic workers as “an indispensable workforce” and highlighted reforms including ethical recruitment procedures, stricter monitoring of agencies, escrow funds to protect workers in disputes, and verification of overseas job offers to prevent exploitation.
ECOWAS Director of Free Movement of Persons and Migration, Obinna Ajuawo, praised Sierra Leone’s initiative, noting that domestic workers across West Africa remain among the most vulnerable. He stressed that labour mobility must be matched with stronger protection mechanisms.
ILO Senior Specialist Inviolata Chinyangarara emphasized that domestic workers often face informality, lack of contracts, and abuse, with migrant workers particularly at risk. She underscored the importance of international instruments like Convention 189, Conventions 97 and 143, and the Fair Recruitment Initiative in promoting decent work and fair treatment.
Representing employers, Sierra Leone Employers’ Federation Project Officer Yvette Kargbo called for greater awareness among employers of their legal responsibilities and urged collaboration between inspectors, employers, and workers’ organisations to ensure compliance and dignity in domestic work.
🌍 What is ILO Convention 189?
ILO Convention No. 189, adopted in 2011, is a landmark international treaty that sets global standards for decent work for domestic workers. It recognizes domestic work as real work deserving the same rights and protections as other forms of employment.
Key Provisions:
- Fair treatment: Domestic workers must enjoy fundamental rights at work, including freedom of association and collective bargaining.
- Written contracts: Employers must provide clear terms of employment, including wages, working hours, and conditions.
- Decent wages: Domestic workers must be paid at least the minimum wage and receive timely payment.
- Working hours and rest: Workers are entitled to reasonable hours, daily and weekly rest, and paid annual leave.
- Social protection: Access to social security, maternity protection, and occupational safety and health.
- Protection for migrant workers: Safeguards against exploitation, trafficking, and abuse, including fair recruitment practices.
- Dispute resolution: Mechanisms to ensure workers can seek justice and remedies for violations.
Why It Matters for Sierra Leone:
Ratifying and implementing Convention 189 helps Sierra Leone:
- Strengthen labour governance and inspection systems.
- Protect vulnerable groups, especially women and migrant workers.
- Align with international labour standards, boosting credibility in global labour markets.
- Promote social justice, fair recruitment, and sustainable development.