By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, September 15, 2026: The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security has held a strategic engagement with Chief Minister Dr. Moinina Sengeh to review priorities, address institutional bottlenecks, and accelerate delivery in the labour and social security sectors.
The meeting allowed the Ministry to present its roadmap, ongoing reforms, and challenges requiring cross‑government collaboration. Dr. Sengeh emphasized that government delivery clinics provide a platform for ministries to reflect on priorities and determine what should be achieved over the next six, 12, and 18 months, anchored in the Medium‑Term National Development Plan.
Minister’s Roadmap
Minister Umaru Napoleon Koroma outlined legislative implementation, labour protection, employment regulation, and social security as key focus areas. He highlighted the full implementation of the Employment Act, 2023, enforcement of end‑of‑service benefits, promotion of Sierra Leonean employment, and knowledge‑transfer requirements for foreign employers.
Two major bills – Workers’ Compensation and Occupational Safety and Health – are currently before Parliament, while additional reforms are being prepared with the Attorney‑General for Cabinet consideration.
The Minister also unveiled a First 100 Days Plan, focusing on diagnosis, public awareness of minimum wage requirements, stakeholder engagement, workplace inspections, and advancing pending legislation.
Compliance and Migration Oversight
The Ministry is strengthening the National Employment Portal to ensure verified vacancies are posted by employers, improving transparency and access to jobs. On compliance, employers will first be engaged and educated before stricter inspections and enforcement begin.
Koroma also addressed the ongoing review of overseas recruitment agencies, citing recent incidents of Sierra Leoneans abandoned in Guinea. Certain recruitment practices through Guinea have been suspended while investigations continue with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
Strengthening Labour Governance
The Minister underscored the need for increased staffing and logistical support for labour inspectors to monitor workplaces and enforce standards. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights, strengthening social security, and ensuring labour programmes contribute to national development.
The engagement concluded with both sides reaffirming government’s commitment to labour governance, worker protection, and improved livelihoods.