By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, September 14, 2026: Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Umaru Napoleon Koroma, has met with labour migration agencies to discuss compliance, safe migration, and national security amid ongoing concerns about irregular recruitment practices.
The Minister reiterated that activities involving the Guinea route remain temporarily suspended while the Ministry investigates reports of Sierra Leoneans being transported to Guinea and allegedly abandoned at the airport. He confirmed that all agencies and their licences will be reviewed, with those holding valid licences required to submit updated reports on their operations.
During the meeting, agencies congratulated the Minister on his appointment and pledged full cooperation with the Ministry, promising to comply with regulations governing overseas employment.
Background on the Halt
The suspension of the Guinea route follows recent government directives aimed at curbing irregular migration and protecting Sierra Leoneans from exploitation. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education clarified that Sierra Leoneans are not banned from travelling to Guinea but warned against using the country as a shortcut for unverified overseas employment.
The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security has since tightened oversight of recruitment agencies, citing risks of human trafficking, fraudulent job offers, and abandonment of migrants. Agencies found to be operating outside approved procedures face suspension or revocation of their licences.
The move is part of Sierra Leone’s broader effort to promote safe, orderly, and dignified labour migration, ensuring that citizens seeking employment abroad do so through lawful channels that safeguard their rights and welfare.