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The Deputy Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security Lansana Dumbuya has on the 27th June, 2024 re-affirmed President Bio’s Commitment to Enhancing Social Protection in Sierra Leone.
He made this declaration during a concluded a two-day stakeholders’ consultation workshop on the Sierra Leone National Social Protection Bill in Freetown.
The aim of the said workshop was meant to bring stakeholders together to deliberate on vital reforms aimed at scaling up the country’s social protection system for it to be sustainable and have the effect it has on the citizens in the country.
Deputy Minister Dumbuya stressed that, President Bio’s steadfast commitment to strengthening social protection in Sierra Leone is a top priority, he added that the President is resolute in his commitment to ratify essential reforms that will significantly enhance the country’s social protection system and that they are dedicated to amending and enacting robust legislation that aligns with international standards and incorporates relevant ILO conventions and best practices.
He further highlighted the government’s efforts, in collaboration with partners, to fortify laws that safeguard social protection and labor services in the country.
“When we took office in 2018, social protection coverage was a mere 0.7%. Our goal is to increase this to 40% by the end of 2025. This ambitious target reflects our determination to provide comprehensive support to our citizens,” he emphasized.
He stated that, this year, they are tasked with reaching eight thousand social protection agencies across the country and the outreach is crucial in ensuring that their social protection network is extensive and effective.
The Deputy Minister also elaborated on the broader implications of the new bill.
“The enactment of this bill will establish the National Social Protection Authority, which will play a pivotal role in coordinating and promoting the delivery of social protection services in Sierra Leone. This authority will also be instrumental in developing comprehensive social protection strategies to address the diverse needs of our population,” he explained.
Dumbuya concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders, urging continued collaboration and support in advancing Sierra Leone’s social protection agenda. “Together, we can build a resilient and inclusive social protection system that leaves no one behind. Our collective efforts will pave the way for a brighter, more secure future for all Sierra Leoneans,” he affirmed.
