The International Labour Organization (ILO) Regional Director for Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Ghana, and Liberia, Madam Vanessa Phala, has complimented Sierra Leone’s progress in meeting international labour standards.

She expressed her admiration for Sierra Leone’s commitment to international labour standards during a recent meeting with the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swarray.

During the meeting Phala, commended Sierra Leone for its significant strides in adhering to international labour practices.

“We are very proud of Sierra Leone’s efforts in meeting International Labour Standards which lie at the heart of the ILO’S interventions.” She said.

She highlighted ILO’s support to Sierra Leone, delivered through various programs in collaboration with the Ministry of Employment, Labour, and Social Security. These programs, she noted, have been effectively implemented through tripartite approach involving  the Sierra Leone Labour  Congress and the Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce.

In addition, Phala outlined both completed and ongoing projects in Sierra Leone, emphasizing the importance of the Decent Work Country Program (DWCP) as a -vehicle through which the ILO provides vital support to its partner states.

She concluded by stating they eagerly anticipate further strengthening their partnership with Sierra Leone.

On his part, Minister Swarray, appreciated Director Phala over her visit and lauded her efforts in restoring Sierra Leone’s voting rights status within the ILO. He emphasized the significance of the ongoing labour law review process, which has already led to the enactment of three out of six new labour laws, highlighting that many of the existing laws were outdated and no longer suitable for the modern workforce.

He added that Director Phala is one of their key partners in achieving the President’s agenda of creating 500,000 jobs for Sierra Leoneans, noting their eagerness in anticipation of a continued and fruitful partnership with her.