By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Amidst a gathering of global social security leaders in Cairo, Sierra Leone’s National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) Director-General, Mohamed Fuaad Daboh, delivered a powerful message, emphasizing the crucial role of strong management, innovation, and international collaboration in building robust and responsive social security systems.
Speaking at the International Social Security Association (ISSA) Global Conference on Management and Innovation in Social Security hosted by Egypt’s National Organisation for Social Insurance, Daboh shared Sierra Leone’s experiences and highlighted the significant progress NASSIT has made under his leadership, particularly in streamlining operations and benefit processing.
Daboh acknowledged the complex challenges facing social security administrators worldwide, noting the pressures of ensuring service reliability while adapting quickly to the ever-changing landscape of customer expectations and technological advancements.
He emphasized that effective management is the linchpin for success, especially given that social protection programs require innovative approaches to meet the evolving needs of beneficiaries.
“Customers need quick and accurate access to information and services,” Daboh stated. “In all of this, effective management plays a pivotal role.”
During his address, Daboh outlined his vision for NASSIT, highlighting ongoing efforts to extend social security coverage to the informal sector, a crucial segment of Sierra Leone’s economy.
He revealed that “high-level meetings and consultations are taking place to design a very attractive scheme for our brothers and sisters in the informal economy whose contributions are in no small measure to the national development of the country”.
Furthermore, the Director-General discussed NASSIT’s ongoing information, communication, and technology (ICT) transformation, which would facilitate easier access to the scheme, particularly for its members.
The conference, attended by over 400 participants from around the globe, offered a platform for leaders to share insights and learn from each other, also providing a valuable opportunity for networking, allowing participants to address shared challenges.
One of the key takeaways from the conference was the need for adaptability and innovation within social security institutions.
The conference also highlighted the evolving workforce, the transformative power of digital technology, and the importance of change management in the pursuit of excellence.
Leadership in social security is also evolving towards change management, innovation and human resources.
Daboh’s call for stronger leadership and collaboration resonated with the audience, reinforcing the belief that global cooperation is vital for building a resilient and inclusive social security future.
His insights and vision underscore Sierra Leone’s commitment to strengthening its social security system for the benefit of its citizens.
