The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security, on Tuesday 2nd July 2024 signed of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Leone Rock, a major mining company operating in Sierra Leone.

This decision by the ministry is to strengthening labour practices within the mining sector of the country.

The MoU signing climaxed a one-day training session organized by the Ministry for Leone Rock’s management and sub-contractors, focusing on keeping them abreast with current labour regulations.

The MoU directly addresses ongoing labour concerns identified during the Minister’s continuous workplace inspections.

Minister of Employment Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray emphasized the importance of this agreement, which commits the mining company’s management and sub-contractors to investigate and take action against allegations of discrimination, assault, and harassment.

It also establish a salary survey comparing wages across mining companies, tackling pay disparities.

Ensure Leone Rock and its sub-contractors comply with all statutory labour requirements, including social security contributions to NASSIT.

Guarantee adherence to overtime pay agreements outlined in the relevant Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Secure risk allowance payments for qualified workers, subject to Ministry risk assessments.

Uphold strong Occupational Safety and Health standards for workers.

Submit all contracts, Terms of Reference, and Human Resources manuals for Ministry vetting and approval.

This MoU signing signifies a significant step forward for workers’ protection and fair labour practices within Sierra Leone, especially in the mining sector.

The Ministry’s commitment to ongoing inspections and collaboration with companies like Leone Rock demonstrates its dedication and strives towards upholding industrial peace and harmony and ensuring the dignity of all workers.