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On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel in Freetown, the Technical Committee on the Informal Sector, National Social Security and Insurance Trust [NASSIT], unveiled the long-awaited draft policy for the Informal Sector Pension Scheme to the Steering Committee.
Hon. Mohamed Rahman Swaray, Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Security and Chairman of the Steering Committee, hailed the occasion as a “significant turning point” for millions of Sierra Leoneans working in the informal economy. He highlighted that, unlike previous initiatives that relied on costly foreign consultants, this policy was developed entirely in-house, showcasing local expertise and ownership while ensuring cost-effectiveness.
Reflecting on the progress made since the September 2024 committee meeting, Swaray noted the pivotal role of the International Labour Organization (ILO), whose actuarial valuation report provided essential data to facilitate the transition from planning to implementation. He reiterated the government’s commitment, under President Bio’s leadership, to fostering inclusive development and extending social protection to underserved groups.
Edwin Mohamed Kamara, Deputy Director General of Operations at NASSIT and Chair of the Technical Committee, credited the collaborative efforts across government agencies for the successful drafting of the policy. He emphasized that this accomplishment was achieved without external consultants, thanks to the technical expertise and dedication of the in-house team. Kamara outlined a comprehensive roadmap leading to the policy’s implementation, including diagnostic studies, actuarial assessments, and plans for awareness campaigns, stakeholder validation, legal framework development, and a nationwide rollout by January 2026.
NASSIT Director General Mohamed Fuad Daboh delivered an impassioned address, noting that over 80% of Sierra Leone’s labor force operates within the informal sector, encompassing traders, artisans, market women, and transport operators. “This scheme is not about charity; it is about recognition, protection, and empowerment,” he stated. Daboh emphasized that the scheme’s success hinges on coordinated efforts, institutional coherence, and strong political will.
He referred to the Steering Committee as “enablers of transformation” and urged them to champion the scheme across their respective institutions. Daboh called for aligned efforts, data sharing, joint implementation, and accountability, concluding with a commitment to leave a legacy where no informal worker is left behind.
Thank for this good work done, the only thing NASSIT is to do for people that has joined them let them create plat form wether you visit or you been at home should assess your NASSIT for updates. That can give trust to people to be part of them, but the operation of NASSIT is scaring people to be part of them only it has been conporsury