By Mackie M. Jalloh
The National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), is poised to roll out a groundbreaking initiative aimed at extending social security coverage to Sierra Leone’s informal sector. This follows the presentation of a pivotal actuarial valuation report, delivered by International Labour Organization (ILO) consultant Raphael Imbeault on September 5, 2024, at the Bintumani International Conference Centre in Freetown.
The report, which evaluates the financial feasibility and sustainability of the new informal sector scheme, represents a significant advancement in NASSIT’s mission to include workers from informal industries—such as agriculture, trade, and other sectors that are vital to Sierra Leone’s economy—within the social security system. This initiative seeks to provide social protection benefits that were previously unavailable to this large and essential segment of the workforce.
During the presentation, a diverse group of stakeholders—including government officials, representatives from the Sierra Leone Labour Congress, and development partners including the ILO and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)—discussed the report’s key findings and recommendations. These recommendations emphasize the need for affordable contribution rates and flexible payment options to maximize participation. They also suggest incorporating a range of benefits, such as employment injury insurance, sickness insurance, maternity insurance, and unemployment benefits, into the scheme.
Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swarray, underscored government’s commitment towards extending social protection to all workers, including those in the informal sector. He praised NASSIT’s innovative approach and strategic vision, highlighting how this initiative aligns with the government’s goal of ensuring comprehensive social security coverage.
NASSIT Director General, Mohamed Fuad Daboh, expressed enthusiasm about the scheme’s potential to positively impact the informal workforce. “This report marks a major step forward in our effort to build a more inclusive social security system,” Daboh stated. He also highlighted the crucial role of the informal sector in Sierra Leone’s economy and the need for a robust safety net for these workers.
The NASSIT Technical Team, along with development partners and informal sector associations, has been pivotal in developing the proposed scheme. Successful implementation of this initiative is expected to enhance Sierra Leone’s economic stability by offering greater social protection to informal workers.
ILO Representative Adam Dramane Bachabbi reaffirmed the organization’s support for the initiative, commending the Sierra Leonean government for its dedication to extending social security coverage. The ILO remains committed to assisting NASSIT throughout the implementation process to ensure the scheme’s success.
