By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a significant step towards expanding social security coverage to informal workers, the Director General of the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), Mohamed Fuaad Daboh, presented the proposed Informal Sector Pension Scheme to the Honorable Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swarray, Wednesday, April 16, 2025.
The presentation took place at the Ministry’s conference room in New England Ville and was attended by various stakeholders committed to the welfare of informal sector workers in Sierra Leone.
Reflecting on the milestone occasion, Director General Daboh expressed his appreciation for the inister and his team, whose swift response to engage in discussions underscored their dedication to overseeing and supervising NASSIT’s initiatives. “Your presence here today demonstrates selflessness and a shared commitment to improving the lives of our citizens,” he remarked.
The Director General described the unveiling of the blueprint as a landmark event in the collective effort to enhance the living standards of many Sierra Leoneans. “This scheme will serve as a safety net for those working outside the formal sector, offering them the financial security they deserve,” Daboh stated.
The new pension policy aims to address the growing need for social security among millions of informal workers who historically have not had access to such benefits.
Daboh presented the comprehensive blueprint for the proposed Pension Scheme for Informal Sector Workers, a document crafted by a Technical Committee formed specifically for this project. The Committee comprises skilled Sierra Leoneans from various ministries, departments, and agencies, whose collaborative efforts have culminated in this crucial step forward. “Your hard work and dedication to this national cause will be remembered by future generations,” he affirmed, acknowledging the commitment and expertise that have gone into developing the policy.
He emphasized that the blueprint was not created in isolation; rather, it emerged from extensive nationwide consultations with key stakeholders and informal workers from diverse backgrounds. “The Technical Committee traveled extensively to gather input, ensuring this scheme reflects the true needs and aspirations of our people,” Daboh elaborated. He underscored that the proposal now enters a crucial phase requiring robust engagement and contributions from all stakeholders, with plans for its presentation to the Steering Committee for validation, Cabinet approval, and legal review by the Attorney General’s Office.
“The journey is not yet complete,” Daboh urged. “We must maintain momentum as we strive to make this vision a reality for the millions of workers excluded from social security protections.” He concluded his remarks with a call for continued commitment from all involved, underscoring the need for collaboration as the project advances.
In response, Minister Swarray commended the NASSIT Director General and the Technical Committee for their unwavering dedication and hard work on the project. He noted that the welfare of informal sector workers is a priority for President Brigadier (Retired) Dr. Julius Maada Bio, whose administration is keen on addressing the vulnerabilities faced by this demographic.
Swarray highlighted recent engagements with the International Labor Organization (ILO) and discussions with countries in the Caribbean Sub-Sahara Regions, noting that Sierra Leone stands out for its proactive approach to formalizing the informal sector and creating a meaningful livelihood for its workers. “Sierra Leone is indeed setting a benchmark in social protection for informal workers, and we must build on this momentum,” he stated.
The minister called upon the Director General and the Technical Committee members to remain steadfast in their commitment to this initiative, reinforcing the belief that their efforts would bring recognition and pride to the nation. He pledged his dedication to closely monitor the critical next steps in this transformative project, emphasizing the importance of remaining engaged throughout the process.
In closing, the minister reiterated the government’s commitment to the Informal Sector Pension Scheme and assured his full support for its successful implementation. “Together, we can ensure that the voices of our informal workers are heard and valued within our social security framework,” Swarray concluded.
The presentation of the Informal Sector Pension Scheme blueprint marks a significant advance in Sierra Leone’s commitment to social equity and security, reflective of the government’s determination to uplift and empower vulnerable populations within the economy. As efforts progress, many hope for a future where every worker, regardless of their employment status, enjoys protection and peace of mind through comprehensive social security systems.
