By Sallieu S. Kanu
Sierra Leone – June 22, 2026: The Commissioner of Labour and Employment has launched a nationwide enforcement drive targeting employers who fail to comply with Sierra Leone’s work permit regime, warning of strict sanctions against violators.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security joined the Commissioner on an inspection tour of factories and trading companies along the Masiaka–Waterloo Highway to assess compliance with the Work Permit Act, 2023, and other labour regulations.
Spot Checks Reveal Violations
At Brama GQ Trading Limited, inspectors discovered that several foreign workers lacked valid work permits. The Commissioner issued a stern warning to the company, granting a seven-day ultimatum for the affected workers to regularize their status. Failure to comply could lead to suspension of operations and other penalties prescribed by law.
The team also visited two slipper manufacturing factories — Roklyn and Co-Shop Slipper Manufacturing — where irregularities were identified in occupational health and safety compliance. An official Improvement Notice was issued to one of the factories, directing immediate corrective measures to safeguard workers.
Compliance is Non-Negotiable
Speaking during the exercise, the Commissioner stressed that adherence to the work permit regime is non-negotiable and forms part of government’s broader efforts to regulate foreign employment and protect Sierra Leonean workers. He urged all employers engaging foreign nationals to ensure permits are obtained and renewed in line with the law.
Ministry’s Warning to Employers
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to enforcing labour laws and promoting decent work standards. It warned that stricter enforcement measures will be rolled out nationwide, with employers found engaging foreign nationals without valid permits facing fines, administrative sanctions, suspension of operations, and other penalties under the Work Permit Act, 2023.
The Ministry emphasized that all foreign workers employed in Sierra Leone must be properly documented and lawfully engaged, as part of efforts to strengthen workplace safety, protect local labour, and uphold decent work standards.