Sierra Leone’s main mobile telecommunications operators–Orange, Africell and Qcell–have last week made a courtesy on the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Honourable Mohamed Rahman Swaray.

They were received by the minister, his deputy, the Permanent Secretary, and other senior officials of the ministry at the minister’s New England Ville office in Freetown.

Representatives of the three mobile companies, who made the minister’s acquaintance separately, congratulated the latter on his appointment and wished him well in his new role as Labour Minister.

They each noted that they had enjoyed a great work relationship and partnership with the minister in his former role, and expressed optimism about what the future holds for their relations.

As key drivers of youth employment and boost to the country’s human capital development, the telecoms operatives pledged their continued support to the government at all times, especially in achieving the President’s ‘Big Five’ targets.

In terms of women’s empowerment and gender mainstreaming, the companies each assured that they employ at least 30% women and also empower and elevate women to attain leadership and management positions within their establishments.

With each of them pushing towards digital transformations, Orange, Africell and Qcell say that they have created digital opportunities for the youth to acquire required skills to meet the demands of the job market.

Minister Rahman said that he was happy that the different managements deemed it fit to ‘knock on his doors’, and equally expressed optimism about their future partnerships.

He explained that his ministry has a responsibility to ensure seamless industrial relations, ensure safety and security of workers and build a strong workforce.

Noting that this is a digital generation, he said that the government is exploring ways to use the digital space to create jobs for the youth, “and we can’t do that without you because you are key players in all of this.”

“We are going to rely on you greatly when it comes to making the opportunities available at the jobseekers’ fingertips. You are natural constituents in achieving this and many more.

We all have a responsibility to make real and positive changes in the lives of Sierra Leoneans,” the minister said.

Credit: Information Unit, MELSS